Ode to Earth Day: Say NO to Roundup

Digging in dirt

I planned to name and detail only ingredients on this site. But, it’s Earth Day and I’m throwing that plan down the garbage disposal today, alongside my green onion roots from last night’s wontons.

EVERY parent should know the facts about a product you may have stored in your garage or backyard. Every child and pet should be spared it’s wrath. Roundup, a popular weed killer, is available everywhere in the spring. It’s widely advertised on television, in magazines, on the internet, and in stores. As I sit here and type, a “Roundup Extended Control” commerical is airing on television. The marketing for this product is strong. Pick up a bottle, pull the trigger on an attached sprayer, and worry about that annoying weed in your yard no more. If only it was that simple and carefree.

Roundup is glyphosate. The Department of Oncology, University Hospital, Lund, Sweden, identifies glyphosate as a risk factor for non-Hodgkin lymphoma in this study. The University of Minnesota conducted this study revealing increased birth defects in a population where the highest use of chlorophenoxy herbicides is used in Minnesota. Roundup and herbicides like chlorophenoxy clearly put your children and family at significant risk for dangerous health conditions.

Do yourself and your family a favor on Earth Day, and throw out these products. Either embrace your weeds or go outside and get your hands dirty. You’ll get much needed vitamin D in the process and maybe even have a little fun too. Kids love to help and be outside. Take this opportunity to get some quality bonding time in, take Mother Nature by the hand, and pull your weeds. Don’t forget to wear your gardening gloves. You’ll rest easy knowing your children and pets are playing on safe turf.

My wheaten terrier, Bonsai

If you’re wanting more, check out this article about the Swedish Oncology study.