It has been banned in Germany and a World Health Organisation says it probably causes cancer. But Melbourne councils are standing by their decision to use a controversial weed killer.
Every Melbourne council is using a weed killer that a World Health Organisation agency says probably causes cancer, despite residents and the council workers’ union calling for it to be banned.
Jennifer Marriott, the president of the Municipal and Utilities Workers Union, said it was concerning that councils were using a substance that was banned in many parts of the world. “The literature suggests that there is a risk to children and adults associated with the use of glyphosate,” she said. “If there is a risk, then why do it?”This masthead contacted Melbourne’s 31 councils and they all confirmed they were using glyphosate but stressed it was sprayed sparingly and not in sensitive areas such as playgrounds or near childcare centres and schools.
Port Phillip Council acting Mayor Andrew Bond said the council reintroduced glyphosate-based herbicides following a thorough investigation by council officers, which considered academic and industry advice. The reintroduction followed a rise in complaints about weeds.Bond said the weed killer would only be sprayed in low-risk open spaces such as laneways and roadside reserves and not in open space areas where run-off may immediately enter waterways.
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