Ecotoxicology Studies for Agrochemicals
Ecotoxicology focuses on the effects of chemicals on living biological organisms. The goal of ecotoxicological testing is to predict the potential contamination of the environment by chemicals in order to determine the most effective actions to prevent or remediate any harmful effects. However, ecosystems are complex environments and the assessment of the ecotoxicological potential of agrochemicals is challenging. In recent years, the ecotoxicity of crop protection products is receiving increasing attention from regulatory agencies, customers and consumers. Therefore, a scientific approach is required for successful ecotoxicological studies. Scientists have conducted extensive and diverse ecotoxicology trials to investigate the effects of new agrochemical products on a variety of animal and plant species in nature. Drawing on insights built from decades of project experience in environmental safety assessments of crop protection products, BOC Sciences offers a wide range of ecotoxicological testing for the authorization and registration of crop protection products, biocides, and veterinary drugs.
Figure 1. Simplified scheme of the procedure for ecological risk assessment. (Marco, V.; Sara, V. 2013)
Agrochemicals Ecotoxicology Studies Capabilities
Ecotoxicology Data Sets
BOC Sciences has built a robust ecotoxicology dataset to substantiate the environmental safety claims of your crop protection products, covering freshwater, marine and terrestrial species.
Ecotoxicological Endpoint Analysis
We perform high-quality ecotoxicological studies to satisfy your global regulatory ecotoxicity requirements, providing extensive ecotoxicological endpoint analysis to ensure your active ingredients meet environmental safety standards.
Figure 2. A proposal for a more ecologically-based procedure for ecological risk assessment. (Marco, V.; Sara, V. 2013)
BOC Science Standard Ecotoxicology Studies Types
Our expert team is able to provide testing services on terrestrial organisms. The studies are GLP compliant and the experimental designs reflect the most updated testing guidelines.
Aquatic Ecotoxicology
Aquatic ecotoxicology data is necessary for regulatory submissions in a range of industries, including agrochemicals. BOC Sciences research biologists have many years of expertise in full life-cycle studies of fish and invertebrates, and our scientists have developed a set of novel methodologies, exposure systems, and incubation techniques to provide customized testing strategies. We therefore are able to offer the most complete portfolio of aquatic ecotoxicology testing services for fish, invertebrates, algae and plants.
Sediment Toxicity
Sediments are a complex and important part of aquatic ecosystems since they are a source and sink for organic and inorganic materials. In order to protect aquatic organisms, pollutants should not accumulate in sediments. Sediment toxicity testing and bioassays are important tools for scientists to study the toxicity, bioaccumulation and bioavailability of agrochemicals to benthic organisms. BOC Sciences supports a series of sediment toxicity tests through sediment matrix and spiked bioassays. We conduct whole sediment acute and chronic studies with invertebrates in fresh and salt water.
Terrestrial Ecotoxicology
Terrestrial ecotoxicology studies are widely employed to assess the potential environmental impacts of agrochemicals in non-aquatic environments. We are able to offer a comprehensive portfolio of terrestrial ecotoxicology testing services to assess such hazards. BOC Sciences has established state-of-the-art greenhouses for seedling germination and vegetation vigor testing, as well as complete test packages for pollinators, earthworms for acute and reproduction testing. We provide expert technical support to assist you with new active ingredient testing, re-registration programs and plant protection product/formulation development.
BOC Sciences Advantages
- Highly specialized technical and analytical services for the worldwide registration and regulatory compliance of agrochemicals
- Robust analytical testing programs that span from research and product development through the production process to final product
- Relies on broad industrial experience, ensuring that all of our work meets the high standards expected by our clients
- Our regulatory experts, toxicology consultants, scientists and inspectors will ensure that you receive maximum levels of guidance, testing and inspection you need.
Reference
- Marco, V.; Sara, V. The Challenges for the 21st Century. Toxics. 2013. 1(1): 18-35.