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Concerning Councils use of glyphosate

In Telford and Wrekin, the Labour-led council is facing public criticism for its handling of glyphosate use, a controversial herbicide, in public spaces. The council only just met its own deadline for addressing concerns about glyphosate, with literally minutes to spare, and has intensified scrutiny over its environmental practices and commitment to transparency, with a bland and generic reply to such a critical issue.


The controversy began on 4 October 2023, when a resident in the Overdale area noticed a council worker spraying chemicals. This prompted the resident to contact the Parish Clerk at Lawley & Overdale Parish Council, who then reached out to the Community Environmental Liaison Officer at the borough council. The council informed the resident that glyphosate, used in contractual spraying, was a "green chemical" and safe since it was derived from plants. However, further research by the resident disputed this claim, revealing that glyphosate is a synthetic compound with potential harmful effects on both ecology and human health.


Growing concerns about glyphosate arise from scientific studies suggesting it could harm wildlife, disrupt essential organisms in the food chain, and cause issues ranging from metabolic disruption to DNA damage in aquatic species. These findings have led to at least 80 UK councils and seven countries banning its use.


The council's approach to weed management is being questioned, especially in light of recent legal battles faced by Monsanto/Bayer in the United States, including a $2.25 billion verdict as reported by Reuters, raising alarms over the potential carcinogenic effects of glyphosate.


In response to public concern, the resident had urged the borough council to reassess its use of glyphosate, explore more eco-friendly weed management methods, and engage in public dialogue with local environmental organisations. This request aligns with the Borough Council Environmental Policy, which emphasises protecting local ecosystems and biodiversity.


The council's lack of timely communication and failure to address these concerns directly have raised doubts about its dedication to environmental health and safety. 


Amidst calls for transparency, the council's Grounds and Cleansing Team reaffirmed their commitment to enhancing open spaces and compliance with national guidelines. However, their response has been criticised for not addressing the carcinogenic potential of glyphosate or providing details about non-chemical alternatives.


The International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC) classified glyphosate as "probably carcinogenic to humans" in 2015, which has only fueled the debate. The council's silence on this issue and their vague references to non-chemical management in certain areas have not satisfied public demands for clarity.


Questions about the council's safety protocols and risk assessments remain unanswered. The community is left wondering if the council has robust procedures in place to protect health and the environment, and whether there is room for meaningful public engagement in decision-making.


Looking forward, the council's statements lack any indication of a willingness to reconsider their stance on glyphosate. As evidence against glyphosate continues to mount and public sentiment shifts, it is crucial for the council to remain flexible and consider phasing out its use in favor of safer alternatives.


In conclusion, Telford and Wrekin Council's current handling of glyphosate concerns falls short in several key areas. There is a pressing need for direct engagement with the most critical issues, detailed information on alternative practices, comprehensive independent risk assessment, and active community involvement.


Residents rightly demand greater accountability, more comprehensive safety measures, and a proactive approach to environmental stewardship to ensure their health and the environment are not jeopardised.

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