It’s against the law to use paraquat in 67 nations around the world yet the herbicide is still widely used by Australian farmers. Australia’s leading Parkinson’s disease advocate is now calling for a ban amid growing evidence about the risk to farmers.
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Parkinson's Australia (PA) is advocating for a ban on the herbicide paraquat, citing scientific evidence linking it to the development of Parkinson's disease. PA CEO Olivia Nassaris emphasized that paraquat has been banned in 67 countries, including the UK (despite being manufactured there), the EU and China, and urged Australia to follow suit. The chemical is not only used by farmers but also on school grounds and sports fields, raising concerns about public safety. With over 150,000 Australians living with Parkinson's, a condition that causes severe motor and non-motor symptoms, PA believes banning paraquat could prevent some cases.
The banning of a product represents an elimination level of hazard control on the Hierarchy of Controls – the most reliable and effective control. Here in Australia the manufacturer’s safety advice relies on utilising the correct PPE – an unreliable, low-level control that relies entirely on compliance by the end-user.
The Australian Pesticides and Veterinary Medicines Authority (APVMA) is currently reviewing paraquat, stating that existing studies do not show a robust link between the chemical and Parkinson's when used as directed. However, the Australian Council of Trade Unions (ACTU) criticized the APVMA for prioritizing industry engagement over worker health concerns, highlighting reports of health issues related to chemical use.
The ACTU is calling for better communication with all stakeholders regarding chemical safety. The debate continues as PA has launched a public Petition · Ban the use of Paraquat in Australia - Australia · Change.org, and the APVMA is considering submissions before making a final regulatory decision.
Read more - Parkinson's Australia calls for ban on common chemical paraquat over risk to farmers - ABC News
ABC Landline episode – https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=T0RxObeeI8s
