Comstock
READ MORE ABOUT:
When California approved methyl iodide for use on California crops, specifically, wide swaths of strawberries fields, environmental and health advocates were distraught. Following the decision, Earthjustice filed a lawsuit challenging its approval and according to a post over on Civil Eats, the battle is heating up.
Methyl Iodide Background
Methyl iodide is pesticide that was approved by the EPA to replace methyl bromide in 2007. In September 2007, 50 chemists and physicians expressed serious concerns about the pesticide’s approval, fearing a lack of peer reviewed studies to prove its safety. Scientists also feared risk to unborn fetuses and infants.
The same risks surfaced when it was approved in California by then governor Arnold Schwarzenegger. Science and health advocates fought vigorously for the pesticide to be banned in the state. Thirty-five California legislatures wrote EPA Administrator Lisa P. Jackson a letter asking that the EPA ban the use of the pesticide.
Methyl Iodide Risks
Methyl iodide is a toxic fumigant that can be sprayed or injected into the ground. It’s a drift-prone, volatile organic compound that puts those that breathe it in at risk. “[M]ethyl iodide [was] listed in 1988 as a known carcinogen on California’s Safe Drinking Water and Toxic Enforcement Act.7" as well.
Earthjustice contends that approval of methyl iodide “violates the California Environmental Quality Act, the California Birth Defects Prevention Act and the Pesticide Contamination Prevention Act, which protects groundwater against pesticide pollution.”
The case could go to court as soon as January 2012, according to Civil Eats.
Like this? Follow my Twitter feed.
Follow me on Facebook.
More on Pesticides
Court Rules that Pesticide Drift from Conventional Farms is Trespassing
Pesticide Lobby Blames Organics for Americans Not Eating More Veggies
EPA Bans Use of A Pesticide That's Been in Use Since 1970
