Traces of the controversial weedkiller glyphosate have been detected in playgrounds across the UK, prompting renewed calls for restrictions on its use. The Pesticides Action Network (Pan) UK tested 13 playgrounds in Kent, Cambridgeshire, Milton Keynes, Tower Hamlets and Hackney, finding residues of glyphosate or its breakdown product at eight sites.
Glyphosate has been classified as a probable human carcinogen by the World Health Organization since 2015. Despite this, local authorities continue to apply thousands of litres of glyphosate-based herbicides in public green spaces. The only area where no traces were found was Hackney, which went glyphosate-free in 2021.
Nick Mole of Pan UK expressed concern that children may be exposed to the chemical through play equipment and soil, given their tendency to put objects in their mouths. Professor Michael Antoniou of King's College London highlighted links to fatty liver disease, kidney disease and leukaemias, stating that a safe dose of glyphosate is unknown.
The Health and Safety Executive is due to review glyphosate authorisation this year, with a public consultation expected. Green MP Siân Berry has tabled a bill calling for councils to ban its use in public areas. Parents at Victoria Park in Tower Hamlets voiced shock, with one mother saying playgrounds should be the safest places for children.
