Taking a cue from MythBuster's Jamie and Adam -- I'm busting some myths of my own about pesticides.
No, I’m not going to post about the ever-popular Jamie and Adam from the Discovery Channel’s MythBusters — as entertaining as they are, I’m more interested in busting some myths about cosmetic pesticides.
Myth: Cosmetic Pesticides are Safe
Studies show there is a growing body of evidence showing a connection between cosmetic pesticides and cancer in adults and children. Most research on pesticides has focused on occupation exposure and has linked it to non-Hodgkin lymphoma, leukemia and cancers of the prostate, kidney, brain and lung. The World Health Organization, through the International Agency for Research on Cancer tests chemicals, including pesticides and pesticide ingredients to find out if they cause cancer in people.
Myth: Health Canada already regulates cosmetic pesticides and this is sufficient
All levels of government share a responsibility for protecting health and the environment. Quebec’s National Public Health Institute put it this way: “the data which are presently available, the fact that certain aspects remain poorly understood, and the increased vulnerability of certain groups provide ample reason to justify taking a prudent approach and applying the precautionary principle with respect to pesticide use.”
Over 160 municipalities across Canada have passed bylaws to restrict the use of lawn and garden pesticides.
Myth: People don’t want change
A recent poll by Ipsos Reid found that 85% of British Columbians support alternatives to cosmetic pesticides.
How about you? Any pesticide myths you feel like busting?