"The US Environmental Protection Agency has issued an emergency suspension of the common weedkiller DCPA, also known as Dacthal, it said Tuesday, the first time the agency has used its emergency suspension authority in 40 years.
The last emergency ban of this kind was of the pesticide ethylene dibromide, or EDB, in 1983.
Dacthal is used to control weeds in agricultural and non-agricultural settings, the EPA says. It’s commonly applied to grasses, artificial turf, crops including strawberries, cotton and field beans and vegetables such as broccoli, Brussels sprouts, cabbage and onions.
The agency cited “serious risks” to unborn babies of pregnant women who are exposed to the chemical including living in or around areas where Dacthal has been used. Some pregnant people who handle DCPA products could be exposed to levels that are four to 20 times higher than what the EPA considers safe for unborn babies."
Maya Davis reports for CNN August 6, 2024.
SEE ALSO:
"E.P.A. Pulls From the Market a Weedkiller Harmful to Fetuses" (New York Times)
"EPA Issues Rare “Emergency” Suspension Of Dangerous Weed Killer" (The New Lede)
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