Information Requirements on Alternative Measures for the Minimization of the Use of Biocides

Abstract

The German Biocide Law regulates the implementation of the Biocide Guideline 98/8/EG into the Chemicals Legislation (ChemG). The latter prescribes under Section §22, Paragraph 1a), Point 5, that the Competent Authorities for biocides shall make "Information on the physical, biological, chemical and other measures as alternatives or for minimizing the use of biocide products available to the public. “ In the framework of a project funded by the German Federal Environmental Agency (FKZ 203 67 448) the basis for this information obligation is compiled and proposals for realizing open access information in this domain are elaborated. Broadly disperse knowledge provides the basic foundation for the requirement analysis and structural design of a planned information system, whereby the different needs for information and advice of the future users shall be taken into account. Special attention is given to information sources that are relevant to biocide user groups (internet, databases, Standards, labels, institutes, industrial associations, consumer organizations, environmental protection groups, professional experts, etc.). From this, these sources can be systematically and reiteratively evaluated and provided in a stakeholder / life-situation oriented structure. The focus of this presentation is on information structure, process-/workflow, and user group oriented content availability.