Ontario government cracks down on cosmetic pesticide use

The Ontario government is set to announce new regulations that would ban the use of 85 chemicals used in about 250 lawn and garden products. These mainly include cosmetic pesticides for lawns, gardens, parks and school yards. The regulation will be a welcome province-wide ruling, replacing disparate municipal bylaws.

The news release cites additional harmful long-term effects of casual pesticide use: “According to the Organic Landscape Alliance, chemical-dependent lawns are highly susceptible to pests and diseases, whereas a healthy lawn can survive several weeks in a dormant state, is less likely to be damaged by pests and is less affected by drought, temperature extremes and general wear and tear.” Full story: Ontario Ministry of the Environment