CITIZENS FOR A BETTER ENVIRONMENT
Tell the Truth About Pesticides
What You Don't Know Can Hurt You
The Consumer Labeling initiative
What You Don't Know Can Hurt You
Many people purchase and use pesticides assuming that, since they are legal, pesticides must be "safe." Unfortunately, there is an alarming lack of research on how pesticides affect human health, and the toxicity information that does exist is not adequately communicated to consumers. Consider these facts:
The Consumer Labeling Initiative
The EPA is in the process of developing recommendations for pesticide labeling through a project called the Consumer Labeling Initiative. EPA administrator Carol Browner has convened a task force made up of federal, state and tribal agencies and organizations. It is Vital that consumers make clear what they want to know about pesticides on the market.
The task force will be making recommendations this fall. Now is the time for you to make your voice heard - don't miss this oppurtunity to get the information you need from manufacturers!
Voice your concerns about pesticides
Please take a moment to write Carol Browner a postcard urging the EPA to require meaningful information on pesticide labels. We have targeted several key issues that are serious information gaps for consumers. Sample language is provided below, but personalized postcards have the most impact. Feel free to use your own words and include personal experience.
"I believe consumers have a right to know about possible health threats caused by pesticides. The short-term and long-term health effects of all chemicals in a pesticide should be clearly listed on the product's label. It is also important for me to know whether health testing of the product has been completed. When I use a pesticide I need to know how it may impact the health of my family, pets and neighbors! Please give me access to that information."
REMEMBER: Pesticides are Designed to Kill!
For more information, contact the CBE office.
152 W Wisconsin Ave., Suite 510, Milwaukee, WI 53203
Phone (414) 271-7280 Fax (414)271-5904
email: cbewi@igc.apc.org