On UFW website, on the section of “Take Action” is caught me by the information about: “Say NO to Methyl Iodide use in CA’s strawberry fields. Send your e-mail to Governor Jerry Brown NOW!”
The Bush and Schwarzenegger administrations officials approved a new dangerous pesticide, methyl iodide, to use in California in 2007 and 2010, respectively. Scientists have called methyl iodide “one of the most toxic chemicals on earth.” In addition to causing cancer, it is known to induce late-term miscarriages and cause permanent neurological damage. Farm workers face the most serious health risks from methyl iodide. Neighboring communities also face increased health threats as the pesticide is airborne and drifts to where residents live, work and play. And methyl iodide would likely contaminate groundwater that will result in exposure for many people. On March 23, 2011, Governor Jerry Brown publicly stated that he would reconsider the decision to register methyl iodide in California. We should participate with the United Farm Worker to urge Governor Jerry Brown to ban methyl iodide in order to protect our public health and also to support farmer workers staying away from direct toxic exposure.
The Bush and Schwarzenegger administrations officials approved a new dangerous pesticide, methyl iodide, to use in California in 2007 and 2010, respectively. Scientists have called methyl iodide “one of the most toxic chemicals on earth.” In addition to causing cancer, it is known to induce late-term miscarriages and cause permanent neurological damage. Farm workers face the most serious health risks from methyl iodide. Neighboring communities also face increased health threats as the pesticide is airborne and drifts to where residents live, work and play. And methyl iodide would likely contaminate groundwater that will result in exposure for many people. On March 23, 2011, Governor Jerry Brown publicly stated that he would reconsider the decision to register methyl iodide in California. We should participate with the United Farm Worker to urge Governor Jerry Brown to ban methyl iodide in order to protect our public health and also to support farmer workers staying away from direct toxic exposure.
As a resident in California and also as a consumer of fruits and vegetables, methyl iodide use will impact to our lives, especially our children’s health in the future. Thinking about one of our love family may get sick because of methyl iodide chemical exposure. It is the top priority to support the United Farm Worker pushing Governor Jerry Brown to make decision right now on banning methyl iodide use.
I'm glad you posted this information because I drive by the strawberry fields three days a week and I just can't understand why a chemical would be more important than human life. Putting farmworkers and children (who love strawberries) at risk over company profits is inexcusable. I think every American should boycott non-organic strawberries until this chemical is banned. I know I haven't bought a non-organic strawberry in years, and never will.
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