Paraquat will continue to be used in Australia despite 70 countries banning weedkiller over Parkinson’s disease fears
The Australian government has decided to keep the herbicide paraquat legal despite its ban in over 70 countries due to links with Parkinson's disease. Regulators claim that stricter safety controls for workers will mitigate the health risks.
Why it matters
The decision highlights the ongoing tension between agricultural productivity and public health concerns regarding toxic chemicals.
Harvesting wheat in South Australia. The herbicide paraquat will remain legal despite concerns about the health impacts on farmers and workers. Photograph: David Gray/Reuters View image in fullscreen Harvesting wheat in South Australia. The herbicide paraquat will remain legal despite concerns about the health impacts on farmers and workers. Photograph: David Gray/Reuters Agriculture Analysis Paraquat will continue to be used in Australia despite 70 countries banning weedkiller over Parkinson’s disease fears Anne Davies Herbicide manufacturer Sygenta had reservations dating back to 1970s but regulator says tighter controls, including phasing out backpack sprayers, can protect workers
The article presents both the regulator's justification and the concerns of scientists and neurologists.
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