Banning pesticides

When this babyvibe mom first moved to Calgary from B.C., I have to admit I was upset that people could still spray pesticides on their lawns and gardens. Since my toddler and soon-to-be-born baby were at greater risk of exposure to pesticides, I was not thrilled. Fast forward two years, and hopefully this will finally change.

The Alberta pesticide ban

Currently the Canadian Cancer Societ y, in addition to many residents and groups, "is calling for a ban on the retail sale of cosmetic (ornamental) pesticides in the province of Alberta as well as a ban on the use of these potentially cancer-causing substances in private gardens and lawns, public parks, recreational facilities and a phase-out on golf courses."

Unhealthy pesticides

Pesticides are bad news. Pesticide exposure is harmful to our health and the environment and it is scientifically linked to a risk in different types of cancer, including childhood and adult leukemia, childhood brain cancer, non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma, pancreatic cancer, and more.

Children are particularly vulnerable to pesticide exposure as they often crawl or play on grass. According to the Canadian Cancer Society, “if pesticides were applied to the area, children may inhale the pesticides, absorb them through their skin, or swallow pesticide residues because they place their hands and other objects in their mouths. Swallowing pesticides/pesticide residue, especially by children, can be very dangerous.”

Even if you do not come in contact directly with pesticides, it can still affect your health as pesticides sprayed can be transmitted through air, soil, and water. You do not need pesticides to have a beautiful lawn or garden. In fact, there are many healthy alternatives that work the same or even better.

The vote to ban pesticides

Calgary city council will be making a vote and we want to make sure it’s in favour of a complete ban of lawn and garden pesticides. You can voice your concern and show your support through the Canadian Cancer Society’s website. Please call 403-268-2430, e-mail your councillors, or offer your input through the website before Oct. 7 when a draft bylaw will go before a special committee to council. Be sure to tell all your friends and family. This is for a healthier future for our children.

For more information, you can also visit www.healthycalgary.ca.

AB archives

baby grass

Banning pesticides

The Alberta pesticide ban

Unhealthy pesticides

The vote to ban pesticides

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