A Greenpeace group on the Isle of Wight has launched an online petition calling on Isle of Wight Council to stop using glyphosate in parks, playgrounds, schools and public streets.
The World Health Organisation’s cancer research arm classifies glyphosate as a probable human carcinogen. Campaigners say this classification makes the case for removing it from places children visit regularly.
Playgrounds, parks, schools and public streets across the Island still receive applications of the chemical, although Island Roads say the concentration of glyphosate they use is extremely dilute – 2% or less of the applied spray, applied no more than three times a year.
The petition organisers say this creates unnecessary health risks for the people who use these spaces.
Families and dog walkers unknowingly at risk
They add that families and dog walkers cross Island routes that have been sprayed with glyphosate. Many do so without knowing the chemical has been applied.
The petition highlights a claim from Island Roads’ fact sheet, which states that glyphosate has “little or no impact on animals”. Campaigners describe this claim as ‘misinformation’ and want the council to correct it.
They argue the Island needs a future where pesticides no longer threaten public health and the environment.
Failed to commit to making the necessary changes
Back in 2023/24, OnTheWight readers took part in citizen science programme, reporting sightings of wall lizard colonies in Ventnor. The project was sparked by the discovery of dead or moribund lizards hours after the area was sprayed with glyphosate.
OnTheWight presented the updated data to Island Roads, but they failed to commit to changing glyphosate-based spraying in Ventnor.
Response from IWC and Island Roads
OnTheWight has written to Isle of Wight Council and Island Roads to ask whether they would reconsider their use of glyphosate.
We will update this article when we receive a response.
Alternatives already exist elsewhere
Councils and cities elsewhere in the UK have removed pesticides from public land without giving up effective weed control.
- Manual weeding offers one proven method.
- Mulching provides another practical option.
- Hot water and steam treatments also remove weeds without chemicals.
Campaigners say this track record proves the approach works in practice, not just in theory.
Calls for a clear council plan
The petition asks Isle of Wight Council to set out a clear and transparent plan for reducing glyphosate use. It also asks the council to commit to eventually eliminating the chemical from public areas altogether.
Organisers say the safety of Island residents should sit at the centre of council policy on this issue.
They frame signing the petition as a way for people to support a healthier, safer environment.
The group encourages Islanders to sign the petition and add their voice to the call for change.
