A Study on Regulatory Trends and Precautionary Measures for Environmental Contamination Caused by the Herbicide Glyphosate

From the Perspective of a Legal and Policy Approach to the Structural Problem of Pesticide Contamination

Abstract

This paper takes as its example glyphosate, which is primarily used as a herbicide and is increasingly being regulated in other countries. First, based on previous research, this paper summarizes the specific concerns that have been raised regarding the environmental and health impacts of glyphosate pesticide contamination. Next, it examines the current situation in Japan, where restrictions on glyphosate use have been relaxed, contrary to regulatory trends in other countries, and examines what structural and fundamental issues remain. Finally, it explores possibilities for taking precautionary measures, including applying the "precautionary principle," to address these issues.