America Is Still Using Diquat, a Toxic Weedkiller Banned in Much of the World
From The Observatory
Diquat is a fast-acting weedkiller used widely across the United States, from potato fields in the Northwest to ponds, vineyards, and even suburban lawns. Although it was banned in the European Union, the United Kingdom, and several other countries because of serious health and environmental risks, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has not re-evaluated its safety since 2002. As a result, it remains legal and available on store shelves.
Scientific studies link diquat to organ damage, reproductive problems, and even neurological diseases such as Parkinson’s. Long-term exposure has been shown to harm the gut, kidneys, liver, and lungs. It also threatens wildlife, soil microbes, and aquatic ecosystems. Despite this evidence, the chemical is still used to dry out crops before harvest, control weeds in orchards and vineyards, and kill invasive plants in waterways. Lawn and garden products containing diquat are also sold at major retailers.
The rise of diquat in the U.S. is tied to growing distrust of glyphosate, the main ingredient in Roundup, which has faced lawsuits over cancer risks. Some new Roundup products now contain diquat instead, but researchers say it may be hundreds of times more toxic than glyphosate with repeated exposure.
Critics argue that industry lobbying, regulatory loopholes, and the U.S.’s reliance on “risk-based” rather than precautionary regulation explain why diquat is still allowed. At the same time, companies like Syngenta continue to export it to countries with weaker pesticide rules, even though they cannot sell it at home.
Safer alternatives exist. Farmers are adopting integrated weed management and regenerative agriculture to reduce chemical use. Consumers can protect themselves by choosing organic or local produce, avoiding lawn products with diquat, and supporting policy changes that prioritize health and sustainability.
Read the full article “America Is Still Using Diquat, a Toxic Weedkiller Banned in Much of the World” by Kate Petty
🔭 This summary was human-edited with AI-assist.
