Using Roundup as an example, discuss the potential ecological impacts of
pesticide use. Don’t forget to discuss the potential impact on vernal pools.



Roundup


  • Most popular herbicide in use today (active ingredient is glyphosphate)

  • Called "Safe as table salt" by manufacturer 'Monsanto'

  • Company scientists falsified data to make product seem safe

  • Sued by the state of New York for claiming that it was 'safe'

  • Rated class III toxin by EPA


Why Roundup is Dangerous


  • Hurts non-targeted organisms

  • Can kill embryos at low concentrations (not caused by main ingredient)

  • 85mL can be deadly to adult if ingested

  • Endocrine distributor, can cause genetic damage

  • Affects fish and other aquatic organisms more than terrestrial ones

  • 24% sprayed in urban areas (sidewalks) can run off into water sources

  • Can last in soil for months before decomposing

  • Plants becoming resistant to


    Vernal Pools


    • Inadvertently introduced to vernal pools via spraying

    • Can kill up to 70% of tadpoles in pool (and frogs too)

    • Cause illnesses / kill other organisms

    • Many small amphibians and small pond life are particularly susceptible.

    • Contaminates water supply and spreads throughout ecosystem

    • High concentrations in vernal pools because there is a small amount of water

    • Soil does not mitigate chemical's effects


    General Problems


    • Companies lying about safety of products

    • overspray of herbicides into vernal pools/soil

    • effects on unintended organisms

    • effects on humans



    Bibliography:

    "RoundUp Herbicide Toxicity." Nature's Country Store. Web. 24 Feb. 2010. <http://www.naturescountrystore.com/roundup/>."RoundUp Herbicide Toxicity." . Web. 24 Feb. 2010. <http://www.naturescountrystore.com/roundup/>.

    Nature's Country Store

    "Pesticide Spray 1a.jpg" Web. 24 Feb. 2010.  http://newcrossplatform.files.wordpress.com/2008/12/pesticide_spray1a.jpg