The Saskatchewan Environment Society is hoping that you'll opt out of using herbicides and pesticides this spring season. (Swaminathan Narayayan/ Dreamstime.com)

By Ronald Quaroni

Pesticide questions

Environmental advocates call for pesticide alternatives

Apr 2, 2019 | 12:38 PM

Following last week’s landmark ruling that saw an $80 million payout to a California man who said his cancer was tied to the use of the popular weed-killer Roundup, a local environmental organization said people should try and limit their use of pesticides and herbicides.

“Often people want to exchange one bottle for another, so they’re saying, ‘If not this bottle of pesticide, what’s the next thing we can pick-up?’” Allyson Brady, the executive director with the Saskatchewan Environment Society told paNOW. “We do encourage people to look for biologically-based pesticides.”

She added a good rule of thumb: If you’re buying pesticide look for a product with the least amount of man-made chemicals or opt for a kitchen cupboard remedy by using vinegar or cayenne pepper.

Brady said a common misunderstanding with the public is that if it’s been approved, and on the shelf, then it’s safe for the environment.

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“One of the things retailers of pesticides can’t do, is say, ‘they’re safe,’” Brady said. “Any level of pesticide is harmful (to the environment), it’s just determining what level of risk we want to put up with.”

As we enter lawn care season, Brady suggested to opt for natural grass enhancement techniques including using good top soil, aerating the ground, over-seeding, and the daily light watering.

Various retailers and organizations were contacted by paNOW to make a comment on the Roundup ruling. Those contacted declined to make a comment.

According to Roundup’s website regarding product safety, they encourage all users to read the label and use the product safely and effectively as possible.

The site also claims that glyphosate-based products including Roundup, has a 40-year history of safe use. They claim the product has been involved in over 800 health and safety studies. Glyphosate is the active ingredient in Roundup.

Monsanto, the company that manufactures Roundup, plans to appeal the ruling.

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Ron.quaroni@jpbg.ca

Twitter: @RonaldQuaroni