Barbara Kaminsky and Kathryn Seely following their presentation to the Special Committee on Cosmetic Pesticides
Kathryn Seely is the Public Issues Director at the Canadian Cancer Society BC & Yukon and an advocate and leader for healthy public policy. I recently had the pleasure of co-presenting with Kathryn to the BC Legislature’s Special Committee on Cosmetic Pesticides. Below she shares how your voice can make a difference in our fight to ban the sale and use of cosmetic pesticides.
Guest blog by Kathryn Seely
We’ve long advocated to the BC government to ban the use and sale of cosmetic chemical pesticides on lawns and gardens, and have successfully supported over 30 BC municipalities in moving away from the use of cosmetic pesticides in favor of healthy sustainable alternatives. The BC Government has struck a Special Committee to consider regulating lawn and garden pesticides and yesterday Barbara Kaminsky and I had the opportunity to present to the committee. We know that by eliminating these chemicals from our lawns, gardens, and green spaces, we will be helping prevent cancer in children and adults. But, we can’t do this alone.
The BC Government is currently accepting public input until December 16, 2011. We need your help!
We need your help because the fight is far from over. Despite the strong and growing support by BC communities, as well as health and environmental organizations, there is mounting opposition from industry. We currently run the risk of BC adopting watered-down legislation that would have little or no impact in creating a healthier British Columbia for families and the environment. The Committee needs to hear from British Columbians who support strong legislation.
How can you help?
1. Take 3-5 minutes to fill in the provincial government’s online E-Questionnaire. You can complete the E-Questionnaire at cancergameplan.ca (click on ‘Speak up’ and then ‘Answer the E-Questionnaire’)
To help you complete the online survey, Model Response to E-Questionnaire . This is a guide to assist you, but the more you can personalize your comments, the stronger your message will be.
2. Submit a video online at cancergameplan.ca. The Committee is hearing presentations from industry stakeholders opposing a strong provincial ban. They need to hear from you! Dig out your digital camera and rally your family, neighbors and friends to speak out! We promise you, your voice will make a difference.
Kathryn Seely & District of West Vancouver Mayor and Councillors Photo credit: North Shore News
Why ban the cosmetic use of pesticides?
The Canadian Cancer society is very concerned about the cosmetic and non-essential use of potentially cancer-causing substances on green spaces. Our position is based on the current body of scientific evidence suggesting that some substances used in pesticides may increase the risk of developing cancer. This includes studies linking childhood leukemia and childhood brain cancer with the use of pesticides at home or by a parent at work.
Cosmetic chemical pesticides are used to control weeds and other unwanted plants on lawns and gardens and can contain carcinogens. Cosmetic use does not include pesticides used for agricultural purposes, forestry or to protect human health. Learn more.