The Ban on Pesticides in Ontario

There seems to be quite a bit of controversy over the impending ban on cosmetic pesticides this coming Spring, especially in farming communities like Chatham-Kent. I want to know what the controversy is really about. The ban directly affects residential property for cosmetic purposes – which are sprayed more intensively than most farms.

Some people claim that it will contribute to the potential fall of the economy due to job loss in this industry. However many others claim that this ban will actually create jobs and enhance our economy as more manual labour will be needed. This method also requires some specialized knowledge of plant and soil ecology which homeowners often lack - hence the increased reliance on organic professionals. Many organic lawn products are also produced right here in Ontario, yet another way of creating more jobs. Not only that, a recent survey of Ontario lawn companies show that ‘the price of pesticide-free services is competitive with traditional services and is sometimes exactly the same.’

The most obvious factor is that chemicals are man-made chemicals that have interfered with the nature’s way. Pesticides have been blamed by many trusted sources for the downfall of species including diminishing numbers of frogs as well as bees. They have also been to blame for health conditions including cancer, ADD, infertility & birth defects. Pesticides are applied to lawns for cosmetic purposes. However while your lawn may look ‘perfect’, the rain washes it into local soil & water sources including streams & rivers killing not only frogs & bees but also fish, birds, earthworms, and other necessary species.

Lastly your children play in your yard. Children, because of their physiology and behaviour, are exposed to greater quantities of pesticides than adults, and are more vulnerable to their toxic effects. A National Cancer Institute survey in the US indicated that children are six times more likely to get childhood leukemia when pesticides are used in the home and garden.^ Not only that, the pesticides are then carried into your home allowing these chemicals to linger for months and even years contaminating things like furniture, carpets and even children’s toys. The Ontario College of Family Physicians conducted research on pesticide exposure and concluded that, “Our review has found evidence of serious harmful effects in several areas including cancer, reproductive effects and impacts on the nervous system. These effects are found in both occupational and home and garden exposures.”

Some feel that these claims are false. However even if there is a chance that pesticides are harmful to yourself, your pets and your children, why take this chance? As parents we cannot let others decide what is best for our children. Educate yourself & do what you can to live in a less toxic world.

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Sources:

http://www.thepeterboroughexaminer.com/ArticleDisplay.aspx?e=1360027

http://ogov.newswire.ca/ontario/GONE/2008/12/23/c4126.html?lmatch=&lang=_e.html

http://www.pesticides.org/docs/website-lawn-care.pdf

http://www.environmentnetwork.org/Pesticide.htm

http://www.ocfp.on.ca/English/OCFP/Communications/CurrentIssues/Pesticides/default.asp?s=1

Trash that Non-Stick Cookware??

I've recently learned that there is a another concern in the kitchen aside from toxic plastics. The non-stick, 'Teflon' surface of most frying pans are now being considered unhealthy as they are used to cook at high temperatures. Apparently the labels state that they are to be used at low to medium temperatures however the label doesn't tell you it can actually be a serious health hazard.

In a 2003 press release Dupont (owner of 'Teflon') wrote that "significant decomposition of the coating will occur only when temperatures exceed about 660 degrees F (340 degrees C). These temperatures alone are well above the normal cooking range." Then, tests conducted shortly after had shown that cookware exceeds these temperatures and turns toxic through the common act of preheating a pan, on a burner set on high. So in June 2008, Dupont announced a 'greener' solution. However, the Environmental Working Group conducted research that has proven otherwise.

What exactly is this toxin?
PFC’s (Perfluorochemical) is also called PFOA, PFOS, C8, PTFE, and Teflon. It is a toxic chemical that gets absorbed into the food that it comes in contact with and is linked to many health conditions including cancer.

Why is PFC so Dangerous?

Tests have shown that a Teflon frying pan heated on a conventional, electric stovetop burner
can release six toxic gases, including two carcinogens, two global pollutants, and MFA, a chemical lethal to humans at low doses - all for the convenience of 'non-stick'.

PFC is present in 98 percent of our blood and 100 percent in newborns!

How can you avoid this toxin?

• Look for cookware that is void of this family of chemicals known as PFC’s.
• PFCs are also found in other products that repel including Zonyl, Stainmaster, Staindefender and Scotchgard. It can be found in fast food packaging including pizza boxes and fast food wrappers (to repel grease), waterproof clothing and furniture!
  

It's insane how these big companies can claim virtually anything and do not have to let us in on a thing they don't want us to know. If you knew the health risks involved with the convenience of 'non-stick' cookware would you take those risks? And even if you were crazy enough to take that chance, isn't it our chance to take? Empower yourself with the knowledge to make your own choices for those who matter the most to you.

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Sources:
http://safemama.com/2008/10/08/dear-safemama-safer-cookware/
http://www.ewg.org