Washington, D.C. -- "Using scare tactics, Beyond Pesticides is pressuring industry giants Home Depot and Lowe's to reduce consumer choice which is unfortunate and misleading at best," says Allen James, president of RISE (Responsible Industry for a Sound Environment). During a press conference today, Beyond Pesticides and its allies pressured these leading home improvement retailers "to carry a full range of organic, non-toxic lawn care products," as well as, "to reconsider the sale of 'weed and feed' due to its hazards and environmental pollution."
"The majority of lawn fertilizers are of the 'weed and feed' variety, which means they contain both fertilizers and herbicides," James explains. "As such, they are regulated as pesticides by state and federal law. Pesticides are among the most highly regulated consumer products in the United States."
The Environmental Protection Agency mandates successful completion of as many as 120 tests before consideration is given for an approved product label and subsequent marketing. This process can take eight to 10 years and cost between $150 million and $185 million. In order for a product to be registered, the agency must conclude there are no unreasonable or unacceptable risks to humans, animals or the environment when the product is used according to label directions. As importantly, Beyond Pesticides is promoting products that are untested for safety and may not work well.
Scientists have maintained for years that the proper use of EPA-registered lawn care products is a safe and effective method of maintaining healthy grass. Studies have shown that well maintained turf provides a poor habitat for health dangers such as rodents, snakes, ticks and bees. Safety benefits include firebreaks, glare reduction on highways and airport runways, and cushioned play areas for children and athletes alike.
"The American consumer has the right to protect the value of their property with safe products that work," James says. "Scientific studies have shown that healthy turf traps dust and other allergens, prevents erosion, and provides the foundation for a neighborhood's ecosystem. The proper use of weed and feed products makes healthy lawns possible."
According to the American Council on Science and Health, "[t]here is no scientific evidence supporting a link between the proper use of pesticides and any ill-health effects in humans. Moreover, there is no evidence that the approved use of pesticides contributes in any way to human cancer."
"American consumers today are well informed and attentive," James says. "They are capable of making decisions regarding their outdoor lifestyle and should be provided every option available to them. By limiting their product choices as Beyond Pesticides is attempting, the consumer will miss out on the health, safety, and economic benefits a healthy lawn offers."