Stef Russell, a resident of Steyning, is facing a daunting reality as concerns about glyphosate, a widely used herbicide, loom over her home. Diagnosed with Multiple Chemical Sensitivity (MCS), Stef experiences debilitating symptoms from exposure to low levels of everyday chemicals, including those found in agricultural applications of glyphosate, which is the active ingredient in the popular weedkiller, RoundUp. This condition is contentious; while some medical professionals recognise MCS as a legitimate health issue, others argue that it may stem from psychological rather than physiological factors.

For Stef, the impending application of glyphosate by West Sussex Highways is particularly distressing. Iconically, she states that the thought of it being sprayed nearby “freaks me out completely.” This anxiety is rooted in the fact that glyphosate is not only prevalent in agricultural settings but also used extensively in urban areas across the UK to control weed growth along roads and pavements. Its efficacy as an herbicide is well-documented, yet the potential environmental and health risks associated with it have sparked fierce debate. The World Health Organisation has classified glyphosate as a probable carcinogen, raising alarm among health advocates and prompted calls for alternative weed management strategies.

To shield herself from the chemical’s effects when it is sprayed in neighbouring streets, Stef plans to evacuate to a friend’s cabin for two days. Her home life is already heavily restricted; she avoids visiting local establishments and does not use Wi-Fi or computers, citing a combination of chemical and electromagnetic sensitivities. "I can’t stay in the area – if it’s not rainy or windy, it hangs around and contaminates the fruit and veg in my garden,” she explains, painting a vivid picture of the challenges she faces.

Stef’s journey with MCS began with an episode involving pesticide exposure on a local farm, after which she adopted extreme measures to mitigate her symptoms. She describes herself metaphorically as “a canary in the mines,” highlighting that her response to chemicals in the environment may reflect broader systemic issues concerning public health and safety. Alongside other concerned residents, she has approached West Sussex Highways with requests to adopt "non-toxic" alternatives for weed control.

In response to growing concerns, Brighton and Hove City Council has implemented an opt-out scheme for residents wanting to avoid glyphosate in certain areas. However, this initiative has not been free from complications; residents have reported instances of glyphosate being applied in areas where they had opted out, causing confusion and outrage.

West Sussex Highways, responsible for the application of glyphosate, responded by emphasizing their commitment to safety and environmental minimalism. According to a spokeswoman from the council, the herbicide is heavily diluted—at a ratio of 95% water to 5% glyphosate—and is applied in controlled measures only to actively growing weeds. They assert that the intention behind glyphosate use is rooted not only in aesthetic preferences but also in preventing infrastructure damage from uncontrolled weed growth which can block drainage systems and pose hazards for pedestrians.

Nevertheless, Stef and her advocates are not alone in their concerns. The debate surrounding glyphosate has gained traction, prompting further investigation into its long-term health impacts, particularly on vulnerable populations such as children. Research has indicated that susceptibility to chemical exposure can vary based on several factors including age, genetics, and existing health conditions. This calls into question whether widely accepted agricultural practices may need to be reassessed to prioritise public health alongside effective pest control.

As discussions continue, the plight of individuals like Stef serves as a poignant reminder of the often unseen consequences of commonly used chemicals, urging communities to critically evaluate their reliance on substances that may have profound health implications.

Source: Noah Wire Services