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Councils in the north and north-east have been criticised for using weedkillers containing an ingredient deemed a “probably carcinogen” by a UN agency.
The Soil Association Scotland – who count Prince Charles as their Royal patron and Gardener’s World presenter Monty Don as their president – have concerns on the routine use of the chemical glyphosate in public spaces.
The substance is banned in many countries across the world including the Netherlands, France, Mexico and Sri Lanka after the active chemical ingredient glyphosate was deemed to increase the risk of cancer in humans by the World Heath Organisation earlier this year.
However, the UK did not follow the ban on the ingredient, which is also widely used for fertilising crops.
Now Aberdeen, Aberdeenshire, Moray and Highland councils have been found to be using the controversial herbicide.
Angela Mitchell, acting director of Soil Association Scotland, said: “…glyphosate is also used by farmers, gardeners and… councils to clear weeds from fields, gardens, parks and public places.
“This is of concern, particularly given that the studies that IARC (International Agency for Research on Cancer – a division of WHO) found showed the clearest link between glyphosate and certain human cancers, were studies looking at operators using glyphosate herbicides.
“We would therefore urge those using these products to look into alternative options and to stop all use of weed-killers containing glyphosate.”
Councils defended their use of the products last night saying they were looking at ways to reduce the usage of chemicals.
An Aberdeen City Council spokeswoman said: “Aberdeen City Council adheres to legislation and best practice with regard to herbicide spraying and is constantly reviewing new techniques in order to reduce chemical usage. ”
A Highland Council spokeswoman said: “We occasionally use weedkiller that contains glyphosate in low instances and quantities under controlled circumstances for the treatment of persistent invasive species such as Giant Hogweed and Japanese Knotweed.”
A Moray Council spokesman said: “Moray Council does not use Roundup, which is a trade name, but does use other weedkillers containing glyphosate.”
Philip McKay, head of roads and landscape services at Aberdeenshire Council, said: “Over recent years Aberdeenshire Council has actively reduced the volume and range of herbicides used in our ground maintenance operation, however, we do currently still use herbicides containing glyphosate.”