Scientific aspects underlying the regulatory framework in the area of fertilisers - state of play and future reforms : in-depth analysis

This document was prepared by Policy Department A at the request of the Committee on the Internal Market and Consumer Protection (IMCO) on the proposed cadmium regulation for phosphate fertilisers. Cadmium is a metal that can have adverse health effects on the general population. The use of mineral phosphate fertilisers contributes to about 60% of current cadmium emissions to soil. The proposed regulation aims to reduce soil and crop cadmium concentrations on the long term in most European regions.