What do people think about glyphosate?
Glyphosate is the most widely used pesticide in the world. It works by preventing the enzymes required for plant growth and starving the plant. In the UK, it makes up 96% of the active substances used by local authorities, with a total of 21,075kg of glyphosate used in 2020.
Despite its widespread use, glyphosate is highly contested due to its negative impacts on human health, wildlife, and the environment. Public sentiment is shifting, with 65% of people now wanting pesticide-free public spaces, and 45% of councils have already begun the transition to herbicide-free alternatives. This is reflected in policy, with the proposed Plant Protection Products Bill aiming to ban pesticide use in public spaces by 2028.
Bayer, who make the leading herbicide, Roundup, have settled around 100,000 claims for approximately $11 billion and still face around 60,000 active lawsuits. Previous research that stated it did not cause cancer has been retracted, after it was found the independent review was heavily influenced by scientists who work for them. Growing awareness of these conflicts of interest has fuelled public concern about deception within the industry.
With growing demand for safe weed control and pet-safe options available like Foamstream, it’s truly a no brainer.
What does ‘pet-safe’ actually mean for councils and land owners?
Pesticides pose a real risk to pets. Dogs are most commonly affected, but cats, rabbits, and horses have also been known to experience health issues too. When animals eat grass or play with objects that have come into contact with glyphosate, they can experience symptoms ranging from vomiting and diarrhoea to serious poisoning.
As councils move away from glyphosate-based weed killers, prioritising pet-safe weed control solutions is essential for responsible and sustainable city planning.
What are the results of pet-friendly weed control?
Healthier pets
- Using non-toxic weed control eliminates the risk of exposure for animals, helping prevent illness and long-term health issues.
Safer watercourses
- Herbicides can run off into drains, rivers, and streams, contaminating water and harming aquatic life. Biodegradable alternatives remove this risk.
Protection for pollinators
- Bees and other insects are essential for biodiversity. In one study, 10 bumblebee colonies were sprayed with a leading glyphosate-based weedkiller, and 94% did not survive. Choosing an alternative removes that risk.
Improved soil health
- Biodegradable solutions do not harm ecosystems. As weeds in the treated area break down, nutrients are naturally returned to the soil, which is crucial for urban biodiversity. The next time you see your pet digging in the park, rest assured that they’re not encountering any dangerous herbicides in the soil.
Pet-friendly weed control methods and the benefits of Foamstream
From hand weeding to steaming, vinegar, and burning, there are many herbicide-free weed control options available. However, while these methods may work well for small areas, managing larger sites requires a more effective and scalable solution like Foamstream.
Foamstream works by combining hot water with a biodegradable foam that encapsulates the plant and insulates the water, allowing it to retain heat for longer. This prolonged heat damages the weed’s cell structure, causing it to die.
Unlike other hot water systems, which typically achieve only 50–60% on first application, Foamstream eliminates up to 95% of weeds. With no harmful residues left in the soil or groundwater, it keeps animals safe and gives pet owners confidence and peace of mind when using parks and public spaces.
Foamstream’s performance is comparable to traditional herbicide methods. Over a five-year period, it also proves to be cost-effective, requiring fewer annual treatments and lowering labour costs, supported by flexible payment options. It works reliably in all weather conditions, can prevent weed regrowth for up to 12 months, and even removes moss and algae, making it a versatile, long-term solution for public spaces.
What are the benefits to councils and land owners?
Choosing a non-toxic weed control method clearly demonstrates your commitment to health and safety. It protects staff, the public, and their pets from harm, helping to create safer, more enjoyable public spaces.
This proactive approach also reduces the risk of herbicide-related litigation, avoids potential fines or prosecution, and makes sure you are prepared for future restrictions or bans on glyphosate use. Beyond compliance, it safeguards your reputation and strengthens public trust, showing residents that you are taking meaningful action and genuinely care about their wellbeing.
In 2025, Foamstream prevented more than 11,000 litres of glyphosate from being sprayed in public spaces. Would you like to join over 100 cities already taking action to phase out pesticides?
Get in touch today to book your demo.
