A potentially dangerous weedkiller connected to serious health conditions, including cancer, has been discovered in children's playgrounds across southern England.
Widespread Contamination in Play Areas
The charity Pesticide Action Network UK (PAN UK) conducted tests in 13 play areas located across three English counties and two London boroughs. They took swabs from soil, plants, and play equipment like slides and swings. Residues of the weedkiller glyphosate and its toxic breakdown product, AMPA, were found in eight of the 13 locations tested.
Significantly, none of the contaminated parks were situated particularly close to farmland. This strongly suggests the source is the widespread use of glyphosate by local authorities to control weeds in public spaces like parks and pavements.
Serious Health Risks for Children
Glyphosate has been linked by numerous studies to a range of chronic diseases. A 2023 study from UC Berkeley School of Public Health indicated that childhood exposure to glyphosate and AMPA could elevate the risk of developing severe illnesses later in life, such as liver cancer, diabetes, and cardiovascular disease.
Professor Michael Antoniou, a molecular genetics and toxicology specialist at King's College London, emphasised the uncertainty. He stated that a "safe" dose of glyphosate is currently unknown and that exposure is a significant risk factor for conditions including fatty liver disease, kidney disease, and various cancers, including leukaemias.
Nick Mole from PAN UK expressed deep concern, highlighting the particular danger for young children who are prone to putting their hands and objects in their mouths. "Finding glyphosate residues in playgrounds, including on play equipment such as swings and slides, is particularly worrying," he said.
Calls for Nationwide Bans and Council Action
The findings have intensified calls for change. While almost 45% of UK councils are making efforts to reduce pesticide use, many continue to use glyphosate. PAN UK is urging all local authorities to adopt pesticide-free policies.
A positive example was found in the London Borough of Hackney, which went pesticide-free in its parks, green spaces, and housing estates in 2021. It was the only area tested where no glyphosate or AMPA was detected. Councillor Alastair Binnie-Lubbock said they were proud to protect residents' health and the environment.
Campaigners are now pressing the UK and devolved governments to follow nations like France and Denmark by introducing nationwide bans on pesticide use in public spaces. A Bill tabled by Sian Berry MP, which would end pesticide use by local councils in England, is currently progressing through Parliament.
The UK government is scheduled to launch a major public consultation in early 2026 on whether to reapprove glyphosate, with a final decision due by mid-December. Children's health advocates are expected to demand a complete ban on its use in public areas, especially playgrounds.
