Steam or foam explored as council becomes first in London to ditch harmful weedkillers

Hammersmith & Fulham Council has enhanced its green credentials by becoming the first local authority in London to use chemical-free weedkillers in its parks and open spaces.

It is scrapping the use of potentially harmful glyphosate-based weedkillers sprays, which were used by council contractors, and will instead use trial the eco-friendly alternatives.

The move comes after the World Health Organisation recently branded a glyphosate-based weedkiller “probably carcinogenic to humans”, while environmental campaigners have been calling for an end to their use due to their impact on wildlife, particularly bees .

For the past six months, the council has been exploring innovative chemical-free alternatives, including the use of hot foam or hot steam, and will implement trials of these in the near future.

Head of environment Cllr Wesley Harcourt said: “While there is some debate over the health risks of glyphosate-based chemicals, there is no debate that at H&F, the health and well-being of our residents is our priority and we recognise the importance of a green agenda in better supporting that.

'Greener, healthier borough'

“We are one of the first councils in the UK to move away from glyphosates, and by taking this precautionary approach are leading the charge for a greener, healthier borough.

“It is vital that we find solutions that work in every part of the borough. This means looking for alternatives that protect the environment, do not put our residents in danger, but also allow us to carry on tackling the scourge of Japanese knotweed that can blight communities.”

Pesticide Action Network helps local authorities make the change to chemical-free herbicides. Director Keith Tyrell said: “We warmly welcome H&F’s decisive action in taking the decision to stop using these herbicides and hope to work closely with them on this project.

“They are definitely one of the UK leaders in this field and we look forward to seeing the results of their trials.”

Previously, H&F’s contractors, Quadron, Pinnacle and Serco used various forms of glyphosate herbicides across the borough’s parks, roadsides and other public green spaces. They have now been instructed them to stop using these herbicides.

The council is also waging a battle against pollution within the borough , and has recently applied for a £1 million grant to help clean up a major hot spot .