Mechanistic Effect Models in the Environmental Risk Assessment of Chemicals: Special Focus on Plant Protection Products

This book explores the scientific and regulatory foundations for the use of mechanistic effect models (MEMs) in environmental risk assessment, with a particular focus on pesticides and chemical safety. Building on the momentum created by the European Food Safety Authority’s 2019 Scientific Opinion on Toxicokinetic/Toxicodynamic (TKTD) effect models, the book examines how mechanistic modeling approaches can support more robust, transparent and ecologically relevant regulatory decision-making.

Recognizing the growing importance of MEMs in environmental risk assessment, the book brings together contributions developed through the Society of Environmental Toxicology and Chemistry (SETAC) Model Acceptability criteria and scenario Development (MAD) working group. The chapters address not only TKTD models, but also population and community models, emphasizing the scientific principles, evaluation criteria and practical considerations needed for their regulatory application and assessment.

By advancing the discussion around the proper testing, evaluation and application of mechanistic effect models, this book seeks to support the continued evolution of environmental risk assessment toward approaches that are more scientifically rigorous, protective and environmentally relevant.