A new poll carried out by GfK NOP for the HEAL Sick of Pesticides Campaign UK in March 2009 reveals that half the UK population is concerned about pesticides, not only on their food but also in parks and other public places.

The poll showed that:
 59% of those interviewed are worried that food and drink may be contaminated (strongly agree 24% plus slightly agree 35%) and
 48% of respondents believe that parks, sports grounds and playgrounds may pose a risk because of pesticide use in green spaces and
 65% supported a ban or reduction in the use of pesticide in public places as soon as possible.

This opinion poll marked the beginning of a Europe-wide week of activities- ‘Week without Pesticides’ - which raises awareness of the risks associated with pesticide use, promote reduction in use by public bodies and individuals and the use of alternatives to manage pests and weeds.

“The public are unmistakably and rightly concerned about pesticides. Governments across Europe must act fast and firmly to eliminate avoidable cancer risks by phasing out the most hazardous pesticides now and bringing bans on spraying in public places,” said Vicki Hird of HEAL’s Sick of Pesticides Campaign.

The new EU legislation must be ratified by the Council of Ministers; the UK Government has publicly stated it will oppose ratification. Even after that, the worst pesticides, those that cause cancer and reproductive problems, will not begin to be taken out of use until 2016 at the earliest.

The Sick of Pesticide Campaign is calling for:
 The UK to introduce an earlier ban on avoidable, cancer-linked pesticides – by 2012 at the latest
 Targets to reduce the use of pesticides to eliminate or minimise exposure
 Pesticide-free areas where children are most exposed, such as parks, schools, and sports grounds
 Health care strategies and national cancer plans that include measures to reduce pesticide exposure.

The poll was launched in collaboration with partner organisations Pesticides Action Network UK, Women’s Environmental Network and the Cancer Prevention and Education Society.