Scientists from the University of Galway say the research demonstrates that glyphosate residues are present everywhere, not only around farms where it is most commonly used. The researchers hope their findings will contribute to the discussion within the EU about a possible extension of the license for glyphosate.
The Galway study involved 68 families, of whom 14 lived on farms where glyphosate was sprayed. There were 132 adults and 92 children. Tests showed that 26 percent of the group had glyphosate in their urine. Among children, this proportion was slightly higher.
The amount of glyphosate in the urine of farming families was only marginally higher than that of non-farming families. In 2015, the World Health Organization concluded that the chemical was probably carcinogenic. This finding is not supported by European scientific bodies. In the United States, thousands of compensation claims related to glyphosate use have been paid out.
Following a European citizens' initiative held last year against the use of glyphosate in agriculture and the food industry, the AGRI agricultural committee and the ENVI environment committee of the European Parliament held a hearing on Tuesday in Brussels. The initiators believe that synthetic pesticides should be gradually phased out by 2035.
Commissioners Sinkevicius (Environment) and Timmermans (Climate) presented their response to that citizens' appeal at the hearing. The Commission wants to strengthen habitats for bees by creating more green areas, also in cities and villages, and by reducing the use of chemical agricultural products. There is no consensus within the EU on such a possible ban.
Additionally, the European Commission must make a decision later this year on extending the approval of glyphosate use in EU agriculture. Several EU countries are pushing for a ban.