Halving, from 100 to 50 meters, of the radius within which plants not infected with Xylella fastidiosa should also be cut, reduction of the 'buffer' areas and removal of the vine from the list of plants susceptible to infection. These are some of the novelties of the draft regulation to prevent the introduction and spread of the bacterium Xylella fastidiosa in the EU territory. The document was published by the European Commission for a public consultation which will end on 7 July.
After the consultation, the regulation will be submitted to Member States for approval in the following weeks for a final decision which is expected before the summer. Member States should establish demarcated areas consisting of an infected area and a buffer zone and apply eradication measures. The width of the buffer zones should be proportionate to the risk level and the diffusion capacity of the carrier. The size of the buffer zone will be reduced compared to today, they will be at least 2.5 km for eradication measures and at least 5 km when only containment is necessary.
In the latter areas it will be possible, for scientific purposes, not to remove plants from plant sites with particular cultural and social value. Removing the vine from the list of plants susceptible to infection should facilitate nursery activity.