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The use of arsenic-treated timber in New Zealand may be reviewed after Australian authorities banned it in playgrounds, outdoor furniture and decks.
The timber industry is warning the Australian ban could cost companies here $50 million in lost sales.
An Environment Risk Management Authority report cleared the chromated copper arsenate timber of any risk two years ago and allowed its use to be continued.
But Australia has joined Britain, Canada and the United States in banning its use in recreational settings after a pesticides and veterinary medicines authority report found an increased risk of childhood cancers. The move has prompted renewed calls for a ban here. The treated timber is commonly used in fences and decking.
ERMA chief executive Bas Walker said yesterday that he would take a "very close look" at any new information in the report that identified serious health risks New Zealand's stance could be reviewed if new evidence of risk was apparent.
"If we found there was new information available that showed there was good, real evidence, we would certainly go back very quickly to see if we should do more."
He stood by the original report which showed "no strong evidence" of adverse effects, he said: The timber treatment contained dangerous chemicals, but the report found no risk to people if it was used properly.
Green MP Sue Kedgley said the Government had bowed to pressure from the timber industry and had disregarded public safety.
Timber Industry Federation executive director, Wayne Coffey said the Australian ban would mean a $50 million loss to the industry.
"This could be the end of our markets of treated timber to Australia. It makes us uncompetitive with the stuff that's pouring in from South east Asia."
Calls for a similar ban in New Zealand were "off the planet" and the Australian report did not justify it, he said.
"The argument is completely flawed because there is simply no scientific evidence to support what they're saying."
Mr Coffey said the federation submitted a toxicologist's report to the Australian group charged with investigating the timber that showed there were no risks. That had been disregarded, he said.
If New Zealand followed suit with a ban, it would be "a day of shame", he said.
- The
Dominion Post 18/3/05
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