We call on the City of Portsmouth to stop using dangerous toxins to maintain our public sidewalks, parks, historic cemeteries and other green spaces, and switch to proven organic grounds maintenance practices instead.

 For years and without public warning, the city has been spraying public spaces with glyphosate (Roundup), bifenthrin, dithiopyr, and numerous other synthetic toxins just to kill a few weeds and bugs. But countless scientific studies link exposure to these chemicals with cancer, thyroid disorders, lower IQ, ADHD, metabolic changes, and many other maladies especially in young children. Entire countries and a growing list of cities worldwide from Paris to Marblehead, MA are restricting or outlawing these chemicals and steam-cleaning sidewalks, burning weeds and using safe alternative methods for grounds maintenance. In Portsmouth, the School Department has not used toxins for seven years and Prescott Park has not used toxins ever for over fifty years.

We request that the city stop using toxins in public places, that it encourage toxin-free property maintenance for all new developments, and to educate property-owners in safe, organic property maintenance. Let the city administration, Mayor, and City Council know that you want Portsmouth to be a non toxic community! Please sign the petition and add your two cents as well. Let your voice for change be heard. To volunteer in our effort for a Non Toxic Portsmouth, contact us at nontoxicportsmouth@gmail.com   Thank you!

 For more detailed information:

http://www.seacoastonline.com/news/20170820/non-toxic-weed-killers-save-taxpayer-money-protect-health

http://www.seacoastonline.com/news/20170813/city-risks-our-health-to-kill-weeds

 http://www.seacoastonline.com/news/20170719/city-trades-one-carcinogen-for-another-that-may-be-worse

 http://www.seacoastonline.com/news/20170521/why-is-portsmouth-endangering-citizens-health

 http://www.seacoastonline.com/news/20170521/why-is-portsmouth-endangering-citizens-health

 http://www.seacoastonline.com/news/20160601/urge-city-to-ban-use-of-roundup-herbicide