Parkinson’s Australia is calling for a ban on the herbicide paraquat, with growing scientific evidence linking the chemical to increased risks in the development of Parkinson’s disease.
Global concerns: As of now, 70 countries have banned the use of paraquat due to its severe health risks, including its strong links to Parkinson’s disease. Despite its known dangers, paraquat remains in use in Australia, posing a serious health risk to farmers, agricultural workers, and the general public.
While banned in places such as the UK, Europe and China, paraquat continues to be used widely in Australia and the United States.
Health Risks: Research has consistently demonstrated the connection between paraquat exposure and Parkinson’s disease. And it doesn’t stop there. The chemical’s toxicity is so severe that even minimal exposure can have devastating effects.
Regulatory Concerns: The Australian Pesticides and Veterinary Medicines Authority (APVMA) has been reviewing paraquat’s safety since 1997. Recent proposals suggest stricter regulations, but a complete ban is necessary to ensure public safety.
We need your support. Please sign our petition to ban paraquat in Australia.
SIGN & SHARE THE LINK ON YOUR SOCIALS. EMAIL FRIENDS, FAMILY & COLLEAGUES.
Your voice is crucial in our efforts to create a safer, healthier future for all Australians.
We want to hear from you!
Your personal stories are invaluable. Individuals and families affected by Parkinson’s disease, particularly those who believe their condition may be linked to paraquat exposure, are invited to help us strengthen our submission. Your stories will serve as case studies that highlight the real-life impact of paraquat on individuals and communities.
Please provide:
- Details of exposure: Describe how and when you were exposed to paraquat.
- Health impact: Share your journey with Parkinson’s disease, including diagnosis and progression.
- Personal reflections: Offer insights into how this has affected your life and the lives of your loved ones.
- Confidentiality: Your privacy is our priority. Stories can be submitted anonymously if preferred.
- Format: Written narratives, audio recordings, and video testimonials are welcome.
Please submit your stories by October 14 to: stories@parkinsons.org.au
Your voice is powerful. Your stories can make a significant difference. Together, we can advocate for a safer future.
#NationalAdvocacy # EndParkinsons # BanParaquat
What else can you do?
Write an APVMA submission of your own: APVMA submissions on the Paraquat and diquat – summary of assessment outcomes in proposed regulatory decisions or requests for further information can be sent to Chemical Review, Australian Pesticides and Veterinary Medicines Authority GPO Box 3262 Sydney NSW 2001 Phone: +61 2 6770 2400 Email: chemicalreview@apvma.gov.au. Please note: Submissions will be published on the APVMA website, unless you have asked for the submission to remain confidential (please lodge submission with the public submission coversheet). The closing date for submissions is 29 October 2024.
Contact your representatives: Let your local MPs know you support a ban on paraquat. Your advocacy can make a difference.
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- Find your Representative/Senator and how to address them
- Introduce yourself and your issue. Tell them briefly about paraquat, global concerns and health risks in your own words.
- Ask them to take action in lobbying the APVMA to ban paraquat and for a reply to your letter.
Ditch it: Dispose of herbicide contents and containers containing paraquat to an authorised hazardous or special waste collection point in accordance with any local regulations.
Video it: Parkinson’s Australia is also on the GOOD EMPIRE app, where the good you do for people and the planet is visible, measurable, and rewarded. Join Olivia in posting your personal video to inspire change and #BanParaquat.
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- Download in the App Store or Google Play Store.
- Join the Pledge to Ban Paraquat challenge
- Post a video of your pledge and ask others to join you!
References:
ABC Breaking news Parkinson’s Australia calls for ban on common chemical paraquat over risk to farmers.
ABC News article Australia’s peak farm lobby tries to silence members after ABC investigation exposes Parkinson’s link to controversial chemical. By ABC regional investigations’ Andy Burns and Nathan Morris
BBC Article Paraquat pesticide maker used “weak” data on Parkinson’s. 13 February 2024 by Malcolm Prior
Dorsey, Ray, et al. Ending Parkinson’s disease: a prescription for action. Hachette UK, 2020.
Paraquat: towards a global ban? Pesticides Action Network (PAN) Europe
The Conversation article ‘One sip can kill’: why a highly toxic herbicide should be banned in Australia Published: May 19, 2021 6.10am AEST Updated: May 20, 2021 2.49pm AEST
Monograph on Paraquat. Watts. (2010) In this monograph, learn extensive information about Paraquat, its chemical profile, environmental and health effects, and alternatives.
