By Carmelo Garcia – Local Democracy Reporter
There are calls for a controversial weed killer which may cause cancer to be phased out by Gloucester City Council.
Glyphosate, which is a key ingredient in powerful herbicides, was developed in the 1970s and is one of the most commonly used weekillers in the world.
However, while the herbicide is currently approved for use in Great Britain, the International Agency on research into Carcinogents, which is part of the World Health Organization, announced in 2015 that glyphosate probably caused a type of cancer called non-Hodgkin lymphoma.
And concerns were raised over its use at a recent Gloucester City Council meeting.
The council’s contractor Ubico uses glyphosate during March and April depending on the weather and if necessary, again in the summer.
Councillor Alastair Chambers (Community Independents, Matson Robinswood and White City) asked about the use of glyphosate at the budget overview and scrutiny committee meeting on January 20.
He said many countries such as Vietnam, Bahrain, Mexico, Denmark, Belgium, France and Italy have restricted its use and he called for it to be banned.
“Why are you still using this potentially dangerous chemical on our streets,” he asked.
“I’ve seen the sprayers going around. Not even wearing a mask. On a quad, back pack spraying away.
“Cats, children, mice, animals, everything, all of our eco system, you’re putting at risk.”
Environment cabinet member Sebastian Field (LD, Podsmead) said it is his aspiration to reduce the use of glyphosate.
He said the City Council has already reduced the use of the herbicide by using a machine which rips weeds out.
“I’d like to see it not used at all,” he said. “But I inherited a system that used it.
“And even in the first year we have gradually reduced the use of it. Now, the jury is out on glyphosate.
“There are mixed opinions on its safety. I’ve been told by officers it is used to kill the plant root which then makes it easier to remove.”
He said his long term aspiration is for the council to stop the use of the herbicide.
The current expiry date for the use of glyphosate in Great Britain is December 2025.
The Government says they will consider their position based on a careful scientific assessment of the evidence and risks when the approval of glyphosate is next reviewed.