OECD’s activities focus on both pesticides (chemical or biological products to protect plants, used in agriculture and related areas) and biocides (a diverse group of products including disinfectants used in homes and hospitals, products to preserve wood, products to prevent fouling on boats and products to control insects, mice or rats in homes and industries).
Pesticides are used to control weeds, pests and diseases. However, they pose a risk to human and animal health and can persist in the environment contaminating air, soil and water. The OECD helps governments implement safer pesticide practices while maintaining agricultural efficiency.
Our work addresses two distinct but related areas: pesticides and biocides.
Pesticides are chemical or biological products used primarily in agriculture and related sectors. They play an important role in controlling weeds, pests and diseases, helping to support agricultural productivity. However, their use can pose risks to human and animal health and they may persist in the environment, contaminating air, soil and water. The OECD supports governments in promoting safer pesticide use while maintaining agricultural efficiency.
Biocides encompass a diverse range of products used to control harmful organisms in non-agricultural settings. This includes disinfectants used in homes and hospitals, wood preservatives, anti-fouling treatments for boats and products designed to control insects and rodents in domestic and industrial environments. Given their widespread use, ensuring their safe and sustainable management is also a key focus of OECD work.
