Antifouling paints are commonly used to reduce the build-up of microorganisms, plants and algae on surfaces submerged in water, such as the hulls of boats.
The EPA has approved grounds to reassess all active ingredients approved for use in antifouling paints in New Zealand, following new information from overseas regulatory authorities relating to the risks associated with their use.
We are preparing the reassessment application and welcome all interested parties to be involved and provide their input and feedback throughout the reassessment process.
We are particularly interested in receiving feedback from manufacturers and users of antifouling paint, as well as those that monitor its use.
Background information and supporting documents about the reassessment can be found to the right.
Latest update
The reassessment is well underway and we have already received valuable feedback from a number of stakeholders. We are now in the process of putting together a preliminary discussion document which will include information about our risk assessment results and proposed controls.
Details about this next stage of the reassessment, as well as an updated milestones, can be found below.
Antifouling paint reassessment - project update (pdf, 50kb)