EPA advisory about clopyralid

Advisory notice, November 2023

Follow the rules for clopyralid weedkiller to avoid contaminating compost

The Environmental Protection Authority (EPA) advises people to follow the rules for selling and using weedkillers containing clopyralid, to prevent sprayed weeds contaminating compost.

Clopyralid is used to control weeds in lawns and on farms. It doesn’t break down quickly in sprayed vegetation and will persist if that vegetation is added to compost.

The same happens if animals eat sprayed vegetation. Their manure will contain clopyralid and compost made using this manure will be contaminated.