Ipswich Borough Council are responsible for weed control in Ipswich. They do this on behalf of Suffolk County Council Highways Department. Their contractor uses a glyphosate based herbicide.

Some studies suggest glyphosate may be linked to cancer. The International Agency for Research on Cancer categorizes glyphosate as a probable carcinogen for humans.

Glyphosate may affect your kidney and liver. Studies of dairy cows eating a diet of soybeans with high levels of glyphosate had higher risks of liver and kidney damage.

Glyphosate may cause problems with your endocrine system that can be linked to developmental and reproductive issues.

Some scientists are concerned that pregnant women and children may have higher risks because children and developing foetuses may be more susceptible to carcinogens.

Many councils around the country have shown the foresight in banning glyphosate based herbicides in favour if more natural and less harmful alternatives. Glastonbury Town Council for example switched to a product called Foamstream in 2011. They now use this hot foam system to kills weeds. The foam is 100% biodegradable and completely harmless to humans, animals and the environment. Your dog could lick up the foam for example and suffer no ill effects.

The other benefit of using the alternative product is it is not just used for weed control. The same product can be used to remove chewing gum from our pavements, graffiti from walls and also be used to clean delicate old buildings, statues and street artworks.

I would like to see Ipswich Borough Council ban the use of glyphosate based herbicides as dozens of other councils have done and switch to a system that is not harmful to us, our pets and the environment.