Introduction: The future of glyphosate in the UK is one of increasing uncertainty, as environmental concerns and health risks continue to spark debates about its use. Glyphosate, a widely used herbicide, has been under scrutiny due to its potential environmental and health impacts. This blog will explore the trajectory of glyphosate bans in the UK, what changes to expect, and how these changes could affect gardeners, farmers, and the general public. Additionally, we’ll touch on the innovative, eco-friendly alternatives to glyphosate—such as the thermo-electric treatment offered by Japanese Knotweed Agency—which are becoming increasingly important in the fight against invasive species like Japanese Knotweed.

The Current Status of Glyphosate Use in the UK:

Glyphosate has been a staple in the UK’s weed management strategy for decades. It is used widely by homeowners, farmers, and local authorities to control a variety of unwanted plants, including invasive species like Japanese Knotweed. However, increasing concerns about its environmental and health effects have led to a shift in public attitudes and policy decisions.

Several cities in the UK, such as Bath, Brighton, and Hove, have already implemented full or partial bans on glyphosate use. This is in response to growing evidence that glyphosate can harm non-target plants, pollinators, and soil quality. As local authorities grapple with the consequences of glyphosate use, it’s clear that further restrictions and bans are likely on the horizon, and ultimately a UK-wide ban will come into effect in December 2025.

Why Are Bans Being Introduced?

1. Environmental Concerns: Glyphosate has been shown to harm biodiversity. It doesn’t just kill weeds; it can also adversely affect pollinators like bees, beneficial insects, and soil microbes. These negative impacts on ecosystems are causing more local councils and governments to reconsider its widespread use.
2. Health Implications: Glyphosate’s potential carcinogenic properties have made headlines over the years, adding fuel to the fire of its ban in various countries. While not universally agreed upon, the growing body of research linking glyphosate exposure to health risks has pressured governments to act.
3. Public Demand for Sustainability: There is increasing public pressure for more sustainable gardening and farming practices. People are looking for non-chemical solutions to weed management, especially in urban environments and public spaces.

What Does the Future Hold for Glyphosate in the UK?

As environmental awareness increases and the negative effects of glyphosate become clearer, we can expect several significant shifts:

1. Wider Bans Across the Country: Following the example set by cities like Bath and Brighton, more local authorities across the UK will likely implement glyphosate bans. With more people aware of its risks, it will become more difficult to justify its continued widespread use, especially in public spaces like parks, playgrounds, and roadways.
2. Stricter Regulations: The UK government may eventually impose stricter regulations surrounding glyphosate’s use, potentially limiting its availability and the areas in which it can be used. These changes will likely focus on limiting its application near watercourses, schools, and residential areas.
3. A Shift Toward Eco-Friendly Alternatives: With glyphosate bans in place, gardeners, farmers, and property managers will need to find alternative methods for controlling weeds. One such eco-friendly solution is the thermo-electric treatment provided by Japanese Knotweed Agency. This method involves using heat to eliminate invasive plants, including Japanese Knotweed, without the need for chemicals. The thermo-electric process is highly effective, environmentally friendly, and safe for surrounding plants, soil, and wildlife.

Why choose thermo-electric treatment?

• Eco-friendly: No chemicals are involved, making it safe for the environment and non-target species.
• Highly effective: It targets the plant’s root system, which is essential for long-term eradication.
• Safe for wildlife: Since it doesn’t involve harmful chemicals, it ensures that local wildlife, including pollinators, is protected.
  4. Increased Research and Development: As the demand for alternatives to glyphosate grows, there will be a greater push for research into non-chemical weed control solutions. Thermo-electric treatments, bio-based herbicides, and other innovative techniques are at the forefront of this movement.

The Role of Local Authorities in Managing Glyphosate Use:

Local authorities are playing a pivotal role in the shift away from glyphosate. With pressure from environmental groups and the public, many councils are adopting more sustainable weed control methods. For example, councils in places like Bath and Brighton are already using more natural alternatives to keep their public spaces safe and chemical-free.

The Japanese Knotweed Agency’s thermo-electric service can complement these efforts, particularly in areas where invasive species like Japanese Knotweed are a concern. The method is effective for tackling knotweed, and local authorities can use it to help manage infestations without resorting to chemical solutions.

Conclusion:

The future of glyphosate use in the UK is uncertain, but the trend towards bans and restrictions is clear. With environmental and health concerns continuing to mount, it’s likely that more regions will follow the lead of cities like Bath and Brighton. As glyphosate use declines, alternative methods such as the thermo-electric treatment provided by Japanese Knotweed Agency will become more vital. These eco-friendly solutions are crucial for ensuring that invasive species like Japanese Knotweed are managed effectively without compromising the environment or human health.

Next Steps: If you’re concerned about glyphosate, use or invasive plants like Japanese Knotweed on your property, consider scheduling a Japanese Knotweed survey with the Japanese Knotweed Agency. Our innovative thermo-electric service offers an eco-friendly and effective way to tackle knotweed and other invasive species without the use of harmful chemicals.

Call to Action: Contact the Japanese Knotweed Agency today to learn more about our sustainable solutions for managing invasive plants and ensuring a healthier environment. We’re here to help you keep your garden and property safe from harmful species like Japanese Knotweed.

EMAIL US: contact@japaneseknotweedagency.co.uk

CALL US: Freephone 03335 777 888

EMAIL WEB FORM: https://japaneseknotweedagency.co.uk/contact-us/ 

Permanent ban on using glyphosate weedkiller approved by councillors

Liberal Democrat councillors have approved a permanent ban on the use of Glyphosate weedkiller to control weeds in streets across the area.

The controversial chemical will now only be used for dangerous, invasive weeds including Giant Hogweed and Japanese Knotweed. A major problem surrounding this decision is that these insidious weeds can be found everywhere including all public areas, schools & homes, posing a threat to locals. Typical treatment for Japanese Knotweed is carried out over a period of years (5/10 years), during this consistent treatment Glyphosate has been sprayed in an area, the soil is highly contaminated by the chemical & there has not been any research to prove the duration that the chemical will remain and pose a danger to health.

If Japanese Knotweed is taken to a dedicated waste site, it is controlled waste and must go to a site that accepts Japanese Knotweed. If the Knotweed has ever been treated with Glyphosate, it is then contaminated waste, and is a whole different process for waste.

The Council are looking into other alternatives to weedkiller and will prioritise for street weeds, and additional funding will be introduced for mechanical and manual weed removal from the next financial year.

Bath & North East Somerset Council says it will also research viable alternative methods of weed control and will look to work with communities to manage street weeds in some locations.

Cabinet member for Neighbourhood Services, Councillor Dave Wood, commented: “In April we will be trialling £950k of investment in frontline services from street cleaning to graffiti, from repairing roads to banning Glyphosate for street weeds with immediate effect.

This will contribute to our work in response to the ecological emergency, significantly reducing the use of chemicals in our operations and providing greater flexibility in how street weeds or pavement plants are managed.

We are all proud of our area and want it to look its best. Under the Liberal Democrats we are working hard to reverse the cuts, balance our books and give residents the services they deserve.

Councillor Jess David, the Council’s member advocate for biodiversity, welcomed the move and commented: The use of herbicides has a significant impact on the environment by indiscriminately destroying plants that are an important source of food and habitat for wildlife.

As well as having the support of organisations like the Soil Association, 3,500 people have signed a petition to this Council asking that we stop the use of glyphosate on our streets.

We have stated publicly that we are facing a climate and ecological emergency, and I believe that stopping the annual street-spray is an important step in changing the way we operate.

This is great news for local biodiversity, allowing more plants to flower and offer benefits. I know this will be welcomed by the many residents that have been in touch with us on this issue.

In my role as member advocate for biodiversity I welcome other actions that the Council is taking to support local biodiversity including altering our mowing regime, identifying sites with rare species, and planting new wildflower areas.

I am also delighted to see that our Local Plan Update includes the requirement for developers to deliver a 10% net gain in biodiversity and that developer contributions may be used for biodiversity projects.

The Lib Dems are committed to addressing the Climate and Nature Emergency and to responding to the growing calls from our communities who want to see action on biodiversity and habitat restoration.

Alternative non-chemical treatments are available.

Japanese Knotweed Agency is the first and currently only entity that offers a non-chemical Thermo-Electrical treatment against Japanese Knotweed. Delivering up to 5000 volts directly to the weed stalks and crowns, sends a massive destructive shock throughout the weed effectively boiling it in situ and it should decompose and leave no trace. It may take several treatments as would chemical treatment, but with thermo-electrical treatment, the ground is left 100% safe and chemical free. Treatment does not affect the ground or land or other foliage next to the treated weed.

Japanese Knotweed Agency will now offer this service across England and Wales throughout 2023 and beyond.

Treatment of weeds such as Japanese Knotweed can now be done safely, and without the use of Glyphosates, protecting our environments and the health of children and adults and wildlife, and is a massive step forwards that has been needed for decades in line with Europe.

Read more about the Japanese Knotweed Agency and their Thermo-Electric eradication on our website: https://japaneseknotweedagency.co.uk/rootwave/thermo-electrical-treatment/

Or call us freephone 03335 777 888

In 2015 Glastonbury became the first UK Council to ban traditional, chemical herbicides such as glyphosate, following a resolution made by Green Councillors Alyson Black and Emma George. This film looks at the alternative weed-control method that Glastonbury Town Council has chosen.

Glastonbury Town Council’s resolution to ban chemical herbicides and use a plant-based alternative has been used as an example by both Bristol City Council and Shaftesbury Town Council in their moves to change from chemical herbicides to more environmentally friendly solutions; the Green Councillor’s initiative has been praised by literally thousands of people on social media and Glastonbury’s story has featured in articles and publications. Town hails weed control after banning chemicalfrom Horticulture Week (29 April 2016).

Alternative non-chemical treatments are available.

Japanese Knotweed Agency is the first and currently only entity that offers a non-chemical Thermo-Electrical treatment against Japanese Knotweed. Delivering up to 5000 volts directly to the weed stalks and crowns, sends a massive destructive shock throughout the weed effectively boiling it in situ and it should decompose and leave no trace. It may take several treatments as would chemical treatment, but with thermo-electrical treatment, the ground is left 100% safe and chemical free. Treatment does not affect the ground or land or other foliage next to the treated weed.

Japanese Knotweed Agency will now offer this service across England and Wales throughout 2023 and beyond.

Treatment of weeds such as Japanese Knotweed can now be done safely, and without the use of Glyphosates, protecting our environments and the health of children and adults and wildlife, and is a massive step forwards that has been needed for decades in line with Europe.

Read more about the Japanese Knotweed Agency and their Thermo-Electric eradication on our website: https://japaneseknotweedagency.co.uk/rootwave/thermo-electrical-treatment/

Or call us freephone 03335 777 888

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https://www.derryjournal.com/news/weed-killer-pesticide-ban-call-99677

Weed killer pesticide ban call

Sinn Féin Councillor Patricia Logue is to bring a motion before the monthly meeting of Derry City and Strabane District Council calling on the council to ban the use of the chemical weed killer ‘Glyphosate’. Already the chemical has been banned in Europe.

The motion will further request that all sub-contractors employed by council also cease the use of Glyfos and all products containing Glyphosate in the council district, in favor of a more environmentally friendly product. Alternative non-chemical treatments are available. Japanese Knotweed Agency offer treatment of weeds such as Japanese Knotweed & can now be done safely, and without the use of Glyphosates, protecting our environments and the health of children and adults and wildlife, and is a massive step forwards that has been needed for decades in line with Europe.

Colr. Logue is tabling the motion forward following concerns being raised by the Pink Ladies Cancer support group in Derry

She said “Glyphosate is the subject of much controversy across the world since a report by the International Agency for Research against Cancer (IARC) in 2015 concluded that glyphosate was probably carcinogenic to humans. That report was followed by a controversial and hugely criticized report from the European Food Safety Authority (EFSA) which concluded that Glyphosate was “unlikely” to cause cancer.

The European Parliament rejected this conclusion and demanded a review by the European Chemicals Agency (ECHA) and requested EFSA release all scientific sources that led to its conclusion. Indeed, my colleague Lynn Boylan MEP has consistently called for more transparency in the process of the approving of chemicals.

The controversy is ongoing worldwide with a ECHA report published in March 2017 concluding that the available scientific evidence ‘did not meet the criteria to classify glyphosate as a carcinogen’. That ECHA study has also been criticized as it uses unpublished scientific evidence provided by industry.

Colr. Logue said that in the circumstances, the precautionary principle must apply. “It seems wrong that anyone would permit the use of Glyphosate in any public area but particularly near playgrounds where every visiting child’s health would be put at risk,” she said.

Jacquie Loughrey, The Education and Prevention Officer at The Pink Ladies Cancer Support Group, who was instrumental in bringing this concern to Colr. Logue said: “After researching the impact of chemicals on human health, the issue of pesticide uses and the negative public health impacts of using pesticides on some groups within our population made me investigate the use in the council area. As we are focused on prevention, in particular cancer prevention and considering children are most at risk from pesticide use, we thought it prudent to bring this to councils’ attention.

We are delighted to be supported by Patricia with this motion.

The motion to be tabled by Colr. Logue states: “As a council we pledge to discontinue the use of glyphosate in all operations with the only exception being when dealing with Japanese Knotweed, which will be injected rather than sprayed.”

The motion also urges council to “pledge to encourage other Statutory Agencies to do likewise.”

Japanese Knotweed Agency is the first and currently only entity that offers a non-chemical Thermo-Electrical treatment against Japanese Knotweed. Delivering up to 5000 volts directly to the weed stalks and crowns, sends a massive destructive shock throughout the weed effectively boiling it in situ and it should decompose and leave no trace. It may take several treatments as would chemical treatment, but with thermo-electrical treatment, the ground is left 100% safe and chemical free.

Thermo-Electric treatment does not affect the ground or land or other foliage next to the treated weed, not does it affect the soil or wildlife or organisms.

Japanese Knotweed Agency will now offer this service across England and Wales throughout 2023 and beyond.

Read more about the Japanese Knotweed Agency and their Thermo-Electric eradication on our website: https://japaneseknotweedagency.co.uk/rootwave/thermo-electrical-treatment/

Or call us freephone 03335 777 888

FOLLOW US ON YOUTUBE