Ctgb, College voor de toelating van gewasbeschermingsmiddelen en biociden Campuses

The Ctgb, or College voor de toelating van gewasbeschermingsmiddelen en biociden, is a regulatory authority rather than a traditional university, so it does not offer academic courses in the conventional sense. Instead, it focuses on specialized training, assessments, and authorization processes related to plant protection products and biocides. The main 'courses' or programs at this campus revolve around regulatory science, risk assessment, and compliance training for professionals in agriculture, environmental protection, and chemical regulation.

• Regulatory Assessment Training: This program covers the evaluation of pesticide efficacy, environmental impact, and human health risks, teaching participants how to analyze dossiers for product authorization under EU and Dutch regulations. It includes modules on toxicology, ecotoxicology, and residue analysis, spanning approximately 40 hours of intensive workshops.
• Biocides Authorization Course: Focused on non-agricultural biocidal products, this course explores legislation like the Biocidal Products Regulation (BPR), product-type classifications, and sustainable use principles. Participants learn about active substance approvals, in vitro testing, and market authorization procedures through case studies and practical simulations.
• Environmental Risk Management Seminar: Aimed at experts in agronomy and ecology, this seminar addresses integrated pest management (IPM), groundwater protection, and biodiversity impacts. It features lectures on modeling tools, field trial designs, and post-authorization monitoring, emphasizing data-driven decision-making.
• Compliance and Enforcement Workshop: This hands-on course trains inspectors and industry representatives on enforcement of the Plant Protection Products Act and related EU directives. Topics include auditing procedures, labeling requirements, and handling non-compliance cases, with role-playing exercises to build practical skills.
• Advanced Toxicology Module: Delving into mammalian, avian, and aquatic toxicology, this advanced program equips scientists with knowledge of exposure assessments, ADI/PoD derivations, and uncertainty factors. It incorporates recent updates from EFSA guidelines and includes laboratory demonstrations.

These programs are designed for professionals seeking certification or continuing education in regulatory affairs. The campus in Ede serves as the hub for these activities, hosting annual conferences and collaborative sessions with international partners like the European Food Safety Authority (EFSA). While not degree-granting, the training contributes to professional development in sustainable agriculture and chemical safety. Overall, the emphasis is on ensuring safe and effective use of crop protection products, aligning with national and EU policies to minimize environmental harm while supporting food security. Participants gain expertise in navigating complex regulatory frameworks, fostering innovation in green chemistry and biopesticides. The curriculum evolves with scientific advancements, incorporating digital tools for risk modeling and virtual reality for hazard simulations. This comprehensive approach prepares attendees to contribute to a healthier ecosystem and robust regulatory environment in the Netherlands and beyond.