In 2019, the EPA allowed for the continued sale of chlorpyrifos, a common pesticide that has been linked to neurological issues and developmental issues in children by the National Institutes of Health (NIH). Other sources have found no such correlation, leading to the EPA's decision to approve its continued use.
Several states as well as the European Union, however, have banned its use, leading to a rapid decline in sales. Thus, Corteva Agriscience, a major manufacturer of the chemical, has announced that it will stop producing chlorpyrifos.
“Due to this reduced demand, Corteva has made the strategic business decision to phase out our production of chlorpyrifos in 2020,” the company said in a statement. “Our customers will have access to enough chlorpyrifos supply to cover current demand through the end of the year, while they transition to other products or other providers. Our customers, shareholders and employees will benefit by redeploying our resources.”
For more information, check out these stories about Corteva's decision as well as background on the debate over the chemical's safety.