UK activists and local councils are calling for a ban on pesticides in urban areas, inspired by Paris, which has been pesticide-free for seven years.
Helena Horton reports for The Guardian.
In short:
- The Pesticide Action Network (PAN) highlights how Paris has maintained its beauty without pesticides, even during the Olympics.
- Over 150 UK councillors and 15,000 citizens support a movement to ban urban pesticides to protect health and wildlife.
- Despite no nationwide ban, 100 UK councils have reduced pesticide use, with 50 going pesticide-free.
Key quote:
"Most people don’t know that harmful chemicals are sprayed in the areas where they and their kids and pets live, work and play."
— Amy Heley, Pesticide Collaboration
Why this matters:
Banning pesticides in cities can prevent exposure to harmful chemicals, protecting both public health and the environment. Paris demonstrates that cities can remain vibrant and green without relying on toxic substances.
Be sure to read: The uphill battle for communities that ban pesticides
