California bans paraquat, highly toxic herbicide outlawed in more than 70 countries
Summary
California is banning paraquat, a toxic weed killer linked to serious health problems like Parkinson’s disease. The state will phase out paraquat over two years after new laws required health risk reviews, making California the second US state to ban it.Key Facts
- Paraquat is a dangerous herbicide used widely in California and other US regions.
- It is banned in over 70 countries, including China, the UK, and the European Union.
- The US Environmental Protection Agency reapproved paraquat for use in 2021 and 2024.
- California is the largest user of paraquat in the US due to its large agricultural industry.
- Exposure to paraquat can cause death, cancer, organ failure, lung damage, and is linked to Parkinson’s disease.
- There is no antidote for paraquat poisoning, and even a small amount can be deadly.
- The California Department of Pesticide Regulation canceled paraquat registrations and will phase out its use over two years.
- Agricultural groups opposed the ban, arguing it bypasses scientific review and may lead to legal challenges.
Read the Full Article
This is a fact-based summary from The Actual News. Click below to read the complete story directly from the original source.
