Methyl bromide alternative awaiting approval

​Despite recent comments to the contrary, there is an alternative to methyl bromide as a biosecurity fumigant for forest products.
 
It is called ethanedinitrile (EDN). An application for approval was lodged with the Environmental Protection Authority (EPA) in July 2017.
 
Extensive research, including commercial scale tests, has been completed by STIMBR confirming EDN is effective against the three pests most commonly found with forest products exported from New Zealand.
 
The Minister for Workplace Relations and Safety, Hon Michael Wood approved the Safe Work Instrument for EDN in December 2020.
 
Once EPA approval is gained, then New Zealand government authorities can work with their counterparts in China and India to gain the necessary permissions for logs and timber products treated with EDN to enter those markets.