The Edible Garden Project grows food without the use of chemical fertilizers or pesticides in all of our Sharing Gardens and at Loutet Farm. As we encourage North Shore residents to build gardens in their yards we are also decreasing the amount of “lawn space”, and hopefully spreading awareness about the harmful impacts of the chemical pesticide use has on our waterways, bees and pollinators, and people.
Now there is a growing number of people and organizations in British Columbia calling on the government to bring in a “strong law that protects our families, pets and environment from the unnecessary use of chemical pesticides…read more.“
What is a cosmetic pesticide?
According to The Lung Association, “cosmetic pesticides are chemical or biological substances used to destroy living things such as: insects (insecticides), plants (herbicides), and fungi (fungicides) for the purpose of enhancing the appearance of a lawn or garden. They are sold commonly as sprays, liquids, powders or combined with chemical fertilizers.” Read more on the health impacts of cosmetic pesticides on the Lung Association’s website.
Are there alternatives to cosmetic pesticides?
Yes! There are lots of ways to reduce pests and weeds. I really like this easy to read table of alternatives. Please share your own alternatives by leaving a comment below!
What would the ban on cosmetic pesticides do?
It would ban both the sale and use of cosmetic pesticides.
What can I do to support the ban on cosmetic pesticides?
You can help spread the message and share your support for a ban by answering this survey, sending an email, or submitting a video. Organizing for Change is leading the charge, and has all the information you need to make an informed impact on this important ban on cosmetic chemical pesticides. Or use this template letter from the David Suzuki Foundation to demand a ban on cosmetic pesticide use.
*Photo credit: greenwalksblog on Flikr