What is Glyphosate and what does it do?
Glyphosate is non-selective herbicide that is absorbed by a plant’s leaves and stems. It is translocated throughout to all parts of the whole plant, by the phloem. It works by inhibiting a specific enzyme pathway known as the shikimic acid pathway, which is essential for the growth of plants and some microorganisms but not found in animals. This pathway is crucial for the synthesis of certain amino acids needed for plant growth. By blocking this pathway, glyphosate effectively kills plants, including those that may harbour mosquito larvae or provide habitat for mosquitoes. This helps control mosquito populations and reduces the risk of mosquito-borne diseases.
Once Glyphosate reaches the soil or dries on the surface it is no longer active and cannot be absorbed through the skin.
Is Glyphosate harmful to humans and animals?
Glyphosate is a product approved by the federal regulatory body for agricultural and veterinary chemical products, the Australian Pesticides and Veterinary Medicines Authority (APVMA). When used according to the product instruction, it present a low risk to humans and animals. As for all chemicals, including those within most households, it is the level of exposure that may result in accumulated risks to human health.
You can find out more by visiting the Australian Pesticides and Veterinary Medicins Authority website at: Glyphosate | Australian Pesticides and Veterinary Medicines Authority
It is a requirement of the City to ensure strict health and safety practices when handling and applying chemicals, and the City regularly audits its contractors and staff to ensure they follow safe work practices and appropriate application methods. There are a number of regulations in relation to safe work practices that are relevant to this type of works. The WA Health (Pesticides) Regulations 2011 also sets out requirements for spraying a pesticide in a public place, including public advisory signage while the pesticide is being applied and until it has dried.
How does the City manage weeds beyond Glyphosate use?
Glyphosate is one part of the City’s broader integrated weed management strategy. The City is working towards a more holistic approach to weed management, by implementing a strategy that uses physical, cultural and control methods to prevent and target priority species. Currently weeds are managed through a number of methods including slashing programs, large woody weed removals, hand pulling and disposal, mulching to prevent seed germination, establishing vegetative cover and targeted chemical applications.
The annual slashing program also reduces fire fuel loads and limits the production and spread of weed seeds.
In addition to herbicide use, the City is regularly trialling alternative methods, including steam treatments, and is an active participant in the Western Australian Local Government Integrated Weed Management Working Group. This group is exploring new methods of weed management in Western Australia, although trials with alternative spray materials have so far shown low performance, high costs, and other environmental impacts.
The City continues to explore all viable options for weed control and is committed to minimising the environmental and economic impacts of these efforts on the local community.