A new report from PAN UK has revealed a growing disconnect around pesticide use. While the majority of the general public in the UK want pesticide-free public spaces, many councils continue to use glyphosate - a weedkiller with well-documented health and environmental concerns.
So why is this still happening? And more importantly, what needs to change?
As a close partner of PAN UK we read the survey with great interest. Here’s our view and our summary of the findings:
The public has spoken
According to a recent survey by The Guardian and PAN UK, 65% of the UK public believe shared spaces such as parks, pavements and playgrounds should be free of pesticides. Despite this, in 2024 alone councils sprayed 354 tonnes of pesticides, which is more than four times the UK government's estimate of 84 tonnes.
Not enough councils are taking action
368 councils responded to Freedom of Information requests about pesticide use. Of those who responded, only 165 (45%) said they are actively reducing or eliminating pesticides. That means the majority are still maintaining the chemical status quo, even in spaces regularly used by families, pets and critically, local wildlife. From bees and butterflies to birds and amphibians, these environments support vital ecosystems that are being quietly undermined by continued pesticide spraying.
Glyphosate is only a short term solution
One of the main reasons councils cite for sticking with glyphosate is cost. For example Southampton City Council continues using glyphosate two to three times a year on paved surfaces. This is due to claims it helps prevent flooding and surface damage, as well as costing significantly less per use than some non-chemical alternatives.
But this view misses a crucial point: chemical weed control brings long-term health and environmental costs and alternatives like Foamstream have been proven to be as effective as traditional herbicides without the environmental and health risks.
Foamstream: A viable alternative without the harmful side effects
Foamstream uses hot water and biodegradable plant-based foam to kill weeds. It is:
- Safe for use around people and animals
- Effective in all weather conditions
- Compliant without needing spray licenses or special certification
Most grounds maintenance teams are only trained and certified for chemical treatments. While glyphosate requires operator certification, Foamstream does not. It's easy to use, requires minimal training and avoids many of the restrictions chemical sprays carry.
Over time Foamstream can be just as cost-efficient as glyphosate and other treatments, with the added benefit of being chemical-free. Councils that have already moved away from it demonstrate that pesticide‑free urban management is both possible and effective. Glastonbury Town Council (the first in the UK to ban herbicides) reported that Foamstream is 900% cheaper than manual weeding.
The science is clear: Glyphosate carries significant risks
In June 2025 a landmark study by the Ramazzini Institute (endorsed by PAN UK) confirmed that glyphosate causes cancer in laboratory rodents, even at exposure levels previously deemed safe by EU regulators.
The study also found:
- Microbiome disruption
- Endocrine system changes
- Increased risk of rare cancers
This supports the World Health Organization’s 2015 classification of glyphosate as “probably carcinogenic to humans”, reinforcing that regulatory “safe limits” may be misleading when long-term or low-dose exposure is considered.
Councils leading the way in going pesticide-free
Several UK councils have already made the shift away from glyphosate and are thriving without it. These include Vale of Glamorgan, Fareham, Glastonbury, Southwark, Hammersmith and Fulham, Lewes and Denbighshire to name a few. These real-world success stories prove that pesticide-free public space management is possible and effective.
The case for national leadership
Efforts by local councils are an excellent step in the right direction, but real change needs national backing. The proposed Plant Protection Products (Prohibition on Public Sector Use) Bill would ban pesticide use by public authorities by 2028, offering much-needed direction and funding support for councils.
Tools like Foamstream combined with public backing and the right legislation can empower councils to shift toward a greener, safer future for urban weed control.
Conclusion
Now is the time for both local and national governments to show leadership and align policy with public expectation. Foamstream is a fast-acting industrial weed spray that’s tough on unwanted vegetation and dirt without compromising the environment.
Whether you need a large-scale solution or close-range accuracy, our organic patented foam and industry-leading technology make the perfect pair. Learn more about our solutions here, or get in touch to talk through your questions and requirements with our friendly team.
