In the 2023 election campaign, the (now) Provincial Government pledged to bring back the ban on non-essential uses of pesticides. Let’s get it done.
March 19, 2024 – In the absence of restrictions on the sale and use of non-essential pesticides, Manitobans will be further exposed to unnecessary risks from these harmful chemicals again this summer.
A previous provincial government had enacted a ban on cosmetic uses of pesticides in 2014, but the restrictions were subsequently repealed. During the provincial election campaign in October 2023, representatives of the current government committed to bring back the restrictions. To date, legislation to do so has not been tabled in the Manitoba Legislature.
Public opinion polling shows that a clear majority of Manitobans favour the ban. And a letter signed by more than 30 health and environmental groups (including the Manitoba College of Family Physicians, Manitoba Public Health Association, Manitoba Lung Association and the Social Planning Council of Winnipeg) expressed strong support for restrictions on cosmetic pesticides.
It is time to remind the provincial government of its commitment to reinstate restrictions on the sale and use of non-essential pesticides.
A simple, effective way to take action
Send an e-mail message to the provincial government, addressed to –
Manitoba Minister of Environment and Climate Change
minecc@manitoba.ca
If you would like to send a copy of your message to your own MLA, here is a list of Members of the Legislature. Click on their name to obtain an e-mail address.
Below is a short sample message that you can copy and paste into your e-mail. Or write your own thoughts on why you want the cosmetic pesticide ban to be reinstated.
Dear Minister …
As you know, the previous provincial government rolled back the cosmetic pesticide regulations that were legislated in 2014, resulting in the resumption of widespread sale and use of toxic chemicals for turf care around the province. During the 2023 election campaign, representatives of your party (now government) pledged to reinstate restrictions on non-essential pesticides.
It is well-established that exposure to conventional pesticides puts human health at risk, especially children’s health. Pesticides are also linked to illnesses in pets that play on treated lawns. Pesticides are harmful to essential pollinators, and the chemical runoff contaminates our waterways. Experience demonstrates that weeds on lawns and green spaces can be successfully managed without resorting to toxic pesticides.
Please introduce legislation to restore cosmetic pesticide restrictions at your earliest opportunity. Thank you.
Cosmetic Pesticide Ban Manitoba 