Pesticides

Study shows synthetic pesticides significantly more dangerous than natural ones

Supporters of so-called conventional agriculture have been claiming that pesticides used in organic farming are as harmful or even more harmful than those used in conventional farming. A new study shreds that claim to pieces. The European Green Deal’s targets of expanding organic agriculture to 25%, halving pesticide use and risk, and protecting sensitive areas […]

New studies reveal links between exposure to glyphosate herbicide and oxidative stress, adverse birth outcomes, and cancer

Two new studies provide strong evidence linking exposures to the world’s most heavily applied pesticide—glyphosate—to cancer and adverse reproductive and birth outcomes. The common cause is glyphosate’s ability to trigger oxidative stress in cells. The first study, “Glyphosate Exposure and Urinary Oxidative Stress Biomarkers in the Agricultural Health Study” was published by a team of […]

California unveils bold plan to sustainably manage pests and eliminate high-risk pesticides by 2050

Leaders representing diverse interests reach consensus on a path to move the state to sustainable practices in urban and agricultural settings The State of California recently joined leaders from a diverse range of backgrounds to unveil a roadmap of ambitious goals and actions to accelerate California’s systemwide transition to sustainable pest management and eliminate prioritized […]

Students nationwide push to rid campus lawns of toxic pesticides

With so many students majoring in environmental studies these days, it’s not surprising they’re re-examining the pristine, grass-filled quads of their alma maters. From University of Michigan to Princeton to UC Berkeley, they have joined forces and now operate through the organization Re:wild Your Campus, which invites 20 or so student fellows each year to […]

FAO promotes dangerous advice on Syngenta’s deadly paraquat herbicide—compromising its independent status

The Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) of the United Nations has partnered with pesticide lobby group Croplife International—and is now nodding approval regarding the formula of a deadly herbicide associated with Croplife member Syngenta. The partnership has been condemned by civil society organizations with critics saying it is like the World Health Organization teaming up […]