Calls for 'pesticide-free Guernsey'

Tuesday 22 October 2019

A local organisation is calling for potentially harmful pesticides to be phased out, in favour of safer alternatives.

The Pollinator Project is launching a public meeting on the topic, following last week's States debate over plans to ban glyphosate, which were thrown out by deputies.

However, it was suggested work to reduce the amount of herbicides, pesticides and other harmful chemicals was ongoing within the States.

"No doubt islanders would prefer to see a reduction and phasing out of pesticide usage in favour of other methods of pest control if they can be proven to be economic, safe and protect our biodiversity," a spokesperson for the project said.

"Our aim is to help create and protect habitats for pollinators and other beneficial wildlife in our schools, gardens and other parts of the islands. The recently released 2018 Guernsey Habitat Survey shows that our wildlife areas have never been under more threat than they are now and the loss of unimproved grassland and other wildlife areas should be of concern to us all."

A number of visiting and local speakers will have their say at the event, including Guernsey Biodiversity Education Officer, Julia Henney and a guest from Pesticide Action Network UK.

"We want to be part of the solution and hope to work with the States and other interested parties," the spokesperson added. "In particular we welcome the comments from the Committee for Environment & Infrastructure who plan to play a leading role in the reduction of herbicides, pesticides and other chemicals that can damage the environment and risk human health."

The public meeting will take place at Les Cotils from 19:30 until 21:00 tomorrow [23 October] evening and everyone is welcome to attend.