EPA Bans Nation's Top Insecticide

i dont know exactly how current this is, but its something to look at



For over 30 years, consumers have been using the pesticide chlorpyrifos on their lawns and gardens and inside their homes to kill ants, cockroaches, chinch bugs, grubs and many other insects. In 1995 alone, consumers applied about 3 million pounds of the insecticide.

Now, the Environmental Protection Agency has concluded that this pesticide (found in over 800 products under the brand name Dursban) is more dangerous than they previously thought. In June 2000, the EPA announced they are banning chlorpyrifos from use in homes and gardens and curtailing its use in agriculture.

This underscores what millions of gardeners already know: Growing gardens and lawns organically is better for the environment and safer for people.

Facts about chlorpyrifos: It is the most commonly used insecticide in the U.S.

In 1995, about 3 million pounds were used by consumers; 5 million pounds by industrial, commercial and business buyers; and 11 million pounds by farmers.

Sales in the mid-1990s were about $500 million per year.

Made by Dow AgroSciences, it can be found in about 800 consumer products, from ant traps to wasp spray and grub killers.

Products include Dursban® Lawn Insect Spray, Ortho-Klor® Soil Insect & Termite Killer and Ant-Stop® Ant Killer Dust.

It has been linked to headaches, fatigue, nervous system disorders, multiple chemical sensitivity and other health problems in humans.

Studies have found chlorpyrifos in the urine of 92% of adults and 89% of children tested. An organophosphate, the chemical can be absorbed by inhalation, ingestion and skin penetration.

Sources:
Environmental Protection Agency reports National Center for Food and Agricultural Policy

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