DAFF approves ethyl formate as a greener alternative to methyl bromide
DAFF has approved ethyl formate under the AusTreat offshore treatment assurance scheme as an environmentally friendly substitute for methyl bromide. It is available for BMSB target high risk goods from 1 September 2025, with onshore use planned for the 2026-27 season.
DAFF notes that unlike methyl bromide, ethyl formate is not an ozone depleting substance and does not contribute to greenhouse gas emissions. It occurs naturally in some fruits, such as raspberries, and breaks down quickly in the environment. Ethyl formate is already used in New Zealand, South Korea and Japan, with trials underway in Southeast Asia and the United States.
This is a landmark decision for ethyl formate in Australia. UBL’s patented Fume8 technology was developed to deliver ethyl formate safely on site, and UBL welcomes DAFF’s move toward safer and more sustainable treatments.
Read more:
Department launches greener alternative to methyl bromide | DAFF
258-2025: Ethyl formate – new biosecurity treatment under AusTreat | DAFF
