Dramatic increase in amount of pesticides used by municipalities

Public authorities used nearly 54 thousand kilos of chemical pesticides in 2005 for the maintenance of public areas, an increase by 12 thousand kg (28 percent) relative to 2001. In urban vegetation areas, the use of weed killers increased by 18 percent relative to 2001, whereas the use on sports fields was reduced by 10 percent. On (semi-)paved roads, e.g. foot and cycle paths, ditches, dike slopes, railways, etc. nearly 30 thousand kg of chemical pesticides were used, a 45 percent increase on 2001. With 5 percent, the use of weed killers alongside railroads increases gradually.

Municipalities are large-scale consumers of pesticides. In 2005, they used nearly 46 thousand kg, 37 percent more than in 2001. The amount used for the maintenance of paved roads increased even more by 10 thousand kg (54 percent).

Consumption of chemical pesticides by public authorities