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 Survey reveals Cancer-linked pesticides used in schools

Children may be being exposed to at least four potentially cancer causing pesticides that are being used in UK schools, according to the findings of a new survey released this week by the Health and Environment Alliance (HEAL) and Pesticides Action Network (PAN). Read the report and the press release

 Pesticides and Health Monthly News

A monthly news summary, part of the Sick of Pesticides Campaign. Read the latest issue here.

 EU Biocide Policy – Safety for Health and Biodiversity first!

On the 4th November, the European Parliament Committee for Environment met to discuss a new legislation for the authorisation and use of disinfectants in households, wood preservatives, insect sprays and other biocidal products.

In light of this PAN Germany, PAN Europe, PAN UK and the Health and Environment Alliance HEAL have presented their key demands. They call to significantly improve the current legislative proposal in order to prevent a roll-back of health and environmental standards.

 Read our joint press release

 Read the letter to members of the ENVI committee prior to the meeting

Recent scientific evidence points to the harmful effects of pesticides on people’s health, especially that of children and other vulnerable groups. Relatively low doses of hazardous pesticides can seriously affect human health, have long-term effects and may be a factor in the occurrence of various diseases including cancer, neurodevelopmental disorders, Parkinson’s and respiratory problems. Substantial legislative measures are therefore needed to protect human health and to address the special vulnerability of children, women of child-bearing age and pregnant women and to prevent their exposure to hazardous pesticides.

The European institutions are currently reviewing the EU pesticides policy. The so-called "pesticides policy package" includes a Thematic Strategy and a Directive on the Sustainable Use of Pesticides, and a Regulation on the placing of pesticides on the market. The European Parliament has already discussed and amended the Commission proposal in first reading (see related article), and the dossier is now in the hands of the Council of Ministers.

The Health and Environment Alliance advocates for a maximum level of health protection against the adverse effects of pesticides use and exposure, particularly for children and other vulnerable groups. We call for a ban of pesticide use in and around areas where children spend most of their time (eg public parks, playgrounds, schools etc), and for a ban of pesticides that are known or suspected to be carcinogenic, and toxic to the reproductive, immune and neurological systems.