The Killer Roundup
Published: 2021-05-21
Translation
This is a translation of a Bulgarian-language post. It conveys the content faithfully but is not the author's original English writing.
I write this hoping that, before you shoulder the sprayer and "simply" get rid of the annoying grass, you will manage to understand that there is nothing simple in the use of systemic herbicides, and that we have yet to learn about the complex harm they cause — not only directly to human health, but also to the health of the soil; or, put another way, to the health of the generations after us.
The information below was found online, from reliable sources that rely on scientific research, so it is not yet another conspiracy, but an honest inquiry into the potential dangers of using glyphosate.
Glyphosate, the main active ingredient in herbicides such as Roundup, is one of the most widely used weed-control products in the world. Despite its popularity, in recent years serious scientific and public concerns have accumulated regarding its impact on human health and the environment.
How does glyphosate work?
- Glyphosate is a systemic, broad-spectrum herbicide that blocks vital enzymes in plants, leading to their death.
- It is applied by spraying onto the leaves, from where it is absorbed and spread to all parts of the plant.
Main risks to human health
- A possible carcinogen (cancer-causing). The International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC) of the WHO classifies glyphosate as "probably carcinogenic to humans" (category 2A). There is evidence of an increased risk of developing non-Hodgkin lymphoma among those working with glyphosate. Glyphosate and its metabolite AMPA can cause genetic damage and mutations, which increases the risk of cancer.
- Disruption of the hormonal system. Glyphosate can disrupt the functions of the human endocrine system, especially dangerous during pregnancy, since it can damage placental and embryonic cells. It is linked to irreversible effects on the development of the foetus and on reproductive health.
- Effect on the gut microflora and immunity. Glyphosate harms the beneficial bacteria in the gut, which can lead to dysbiosis, digestive problems, autoimmune diseases — and, in bees, to mass mortality. Disturbances in the gut microflora are also linked to mental disorders such as anxiety and depression.
- Accumulation in the body and the environment. Traces of glyphosate are found in human urine, including in Europe, which indicates mass exposure through food and water. Glyphosate accumulates in the soil and in plants, and from there — in the human body through the food chain.
Dangers to the environment
- Destruction of pollinators: glyphosate is proven harmful to monarch butterflies and bees, leading to a decline in their populations, which threatens the pollination of crops.
- Pollution of air and water: it has been found in the air and in rainwater, which means it spreads far from the place of use.
- Accumulation in the soil: glyphosate remains in the soil for a long time, disrupting its microbiological balance and fertility.
Practical advice for gardeners
- Exposure to glyphosate carries a risk not only for those spraying, but for everyone who consumes produce from treated areas.
- The product destroys all green plants, including crops and ornamental species, if it lands on them. Even small quantities can damage the plants you want to keep.
- The use of glyphosate in private gardens and public spaces is already banned in a number of countries, and harmless weed-control practices are encouraged instead. Here are some of them:
Using natural preparations. Vinegar (white or apple cider, with a high acetic-acid content) is sprayed directly onto the leaves of the weeds. Important: vinegar destroys every plant it touches, so apply carefully. Salt (especially coarse rock salt) can be used in small quantities in cracks between paving slabs or along paths, but not in vegetable beds, since it can damage the soil. Acidic preparations based on citric acid, clove oils or citrus oils are also effective against young weeds.
Mulching. Covering the soil with organic mulch (bark, straw, wood shavings, leaves) or with landscape fabric blocks light from reaching the weed seeds and limits their growth. Mulch also improves moisture retention and the fertility of the soil.
In conclusion, Roundup is a powerful herbicide, but more and more scientific data show serious risks to the health of people, animals and the environment. Although it is not yet fully banned everywhere, many countries are restricting its use, especially in private and public spaces. There are equally powerful, health-harmless alternative methods for weed control that can be prepared at home.
Sources for more information:
- DW: Is glyphosate dangerous?
- Cvetno.info: The harm of Roundup
- USRTK: Glyphosate Health Concerns
- Wikipedia: Glyphosate
- GMOresearch: Human-health risks of the use of glyphosate