Environmental Risk Assessment (ERA)
The process of assessing potential harm to the environment caused by a substance, activity or natural occurrence. This may include the introduction of GM plants, the use of pesticides, or the spread of plant pests
In food safety, an environmental risk assessment is the process of evaluating how substances or activities linked to food production may affect the environment, including soil, water, plants, animals, and ecosystems. This can involve assessing pesticides, feed additives, genetically modified organisms, or other substances released into the environment as part of the food chain.
EFSA carries out environmental risk assessments to identify potential harmful effects, estimate exposure of environmental species, and evaluate whether risks are acceptable. The results help EFSA provide scientific advice to EU decision-makers on the safe use or authorization of substances and technologies, ensuring that food production protects both public health and the environment.