NGOs hail ban as a feather in the new environment minister’s cap

Friends of the Earth Malta and the Malta Organic Agriculture Movement have hailed government’s decision to kick start the process for a national ban on glyphosate in Malta as a feather in the new environment minister’s cap.

Martin Galea De Giovanni, Director of Friends of the Earth Malta said that “this is a triumph to civil society following years of campaigning since tests carried out by Friends of the Earth Malta in 2013 showed that traces of the weed killer glyphosate were found in 9 out of 10 people tested.

This announcement shows responsibility from government’s side as it chose to listen to the concerns of experts and individuals who have demanded that our fields, streets and gardens would be free from this risky weed killer.”

John Portelli, spokesperson for the Malta Organic Agriculture Movement said “Reducing potential health risks is in the interest of both the government and the public: every cent we don’t spend on health is a cent gained somewhere else. The national ban is a win-win to all Maltese citizens.

“FoE Malta and MOAM would hope that other European countries follow Malta’s example and ensure that European farming becomes safer and greener for the benefit of all European citizens.