Norfolk authorities cutting use of controversial weedkiller
They've rejected calls to stop using the chemical completely
The use of a weedkiller on Norfolk highways, which has been linked to causing cancer, will be halved by County Hall.
Norfolk County Council has agreed to cut back on the use of glyphosate-based weedkillers in the region, but rejected calls to stop using the chemical completely.
Speaking at a Norfolk County Council cabinet meeting, Eric Vardy, member for the environment, said: “Concerns over glyphosate-based herbicides have been mounting nationally, linked to some reports of health issues in those exposed to it over prolonged periods of time.”
While Mr Vardy said pressure groups have called for the herbicide to be banned and other councils have begun to move away from using it, he said the council would not take that approach yet.
He said: “Switching away entirely currently means using more labour-intensive, mechanical means, which are less effective and increase our carbon footprint.”
He called it a “measured approach” which would reduce its use by around 50pc.
Three years ago, chemical firm Bayer paid £8.8bn to settle cancer claims linked to its glyphosate-based Roundup weedkiller, although the company says research confirms they can be used safely and do not cause cancer.
The European Union has extended approval of the glyphosates until the end of this year, while approval for their use in the UK is due to end in 2025.