An article over at Popular Science recently highlighted some research on the risk of amphibians to pesticides that are in common use today. We've also blogged about this issue back in October but this warrents a new look.

In light of research from the University of Pittsburgh, "ten of the world's most popular pesticides can decimate amphibian populations when mixed together even if the concentration of the individual chemicals are within limits considered safe." This goes for the popular herbicide Round Up.

The more people learn about pesticides, the more questions are raised about the potential toxic effects on humans, especially children. Pesticide manufacturers often portray these unresolved scientific issues, and the uncertainty that comes with them, as safety.

Statements like, "There is no conclusive evidence of harm to humans" from exposure to pesticide X are intended to mislead the public into believing that exposures to pesticides and toxic chemicals are without risks. This is not true. Absence of knowledge is NOT proof of safety.

A group in Oregon, called Oregonians for Food and Shelter, produce statements like the above to convince people of their safety and continued use. Their intentions are to protect the industries that "rely" on chemicals for "normal" operation and perhaps continued profit.

The pesticide use by industry and the safety concerns of environmentalists form a relationship bound by the middle ground of acceptable regulations. These regulations, however, are usually weak due to the possible economic hardships that could be imposed upon by industry.

Nonetheless, Oregon Toxics Alliance continues to work for ALL Oregonians to help make this a safer state. Please email us with any questions or concerns, we'd love to answer your questions.