The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), has cautioned retailers and producers of pesticides and herbicides who are operating without licenses to regularise their activities through the agency or face the law.
Speaking to GBC NEWS in Wa, an Officer of the Upper West Regional Office of the Agency, Justine Babasoro Dakpiri, said herbicides and pesticides are dangerous chemicals that pose serious threat to human life and the environment.
It is therefore important for operators to get the required authorization before operating.
The Officer from the Upper West Regional office of the Agency, Justine Babasoro Dakpiri warned that compliance enforcement team of the EPA will soon be moving to the various shops to inspect their activities to fish out all those operating without the requisite permits.
Mr. Dakpiri said anyone found culpable will be punished according to the law.
He said the agency is operating with the 1992 constitution, citing Act (490) 1996 and article 528 which has mandated the EPA to regulate the activities of pesticides dealers.
He advised retailers and producers to go to any of their offices across the country to acquire license to enable them operate their businesses.
Mr. Dakpiri also advised farmers who patronise the pesticides to read the labels of the products carefully to ensure proper application. He urged those who cannot read to seek clarifications from the operators on how to apply the chemicals correctly.
Mr. Dakpiri cautioned farmers against seeking advice from their colleague farmers and entreated them to consult the agriculture extension officers in their communities for support.
By: Dennis Bebane.
