Expose Bayer’s Poisonous Roundup and Protect Human Health
907 signatures toward our 30,000 Goal
Sponsor: The Breast Cancer Site
Every day Bayer's new Roundup exposes our families and environment to 45 times more toxicity. Act now to demand safer, glyphosate-free alternatives and protect our health and planet.
Bayer pledged to eliminate glyphosate, a cancer-linked chemical, from its Roundup weed killers by 2023. However, a recent analysis reveals that the replacement chemicals are even more dangerous1. Instead of reducing toxicity, Bayer's new Roundup formulations are now 45 times more toxic to human health1. This alarming increase poses severe risks to consumers and the environment alike.
Replacement Chemicals Pose Greater Risks
Despite Bayer’s commitment, several Roundup products still contain glyphosate, while eight new formulations introduce chemicals such as diquat dibromide, fluazifop-P-butyl, triclopyr, and imazapic2. These replacements are not only more toxic but also have been linked to a variety of health issues including reproductive defects, kidney and liver damage, and severe allergic reactions3. Notably, diquat dibromide is 200 times more toxic than glyphosate and is banned in the European Union4.
Environmental Harm Escalates
The environmental impact of these new chemicals is equally concerning. Studies show that the updated Roundup formulations are more persistent in the environment, increasing the likelihood of contaminating groundwater and harming aquatic life4. Additionally, these chemicals pose greater threats to bees, birds, and earthworms, which are essential for maintaining ecological balance1.
Bayer’s Flawed Defense
Bayer has defended its actions, stating that the new formulations have been thoroughly reviewed and approved by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA)2. The company claims that consumers can safely use Roundup as directed. However, critics argue that the EPA’s oversight is insufficient and that Bayer has failed to provide adequate warnings about the increased risks2.
The Urgent Need for Change
Health experts and environmental advocates are calling for immediate action. The introduction of more toxic chemicals in Roundup undermines public safety and environmental conservation. There is a pressing need for Bayer to develop safer, glyphosate-free alternatives and to retire toxic brands like Roundup5. Without these changes, consumers continue to face heightened health risks, and ecosystems suffer irreversible damage.
A Better Future Starts Now
Ensuring the safety of chemical products is crucial for protecting human health and preserving our planet. Bayer has the responsibility to prioritize safety, humanity, and conservation by reformulating its products and eliminating hazardous chemicals. By taking these steps, Bayer can restore trust, support public health, and contribute to a sustainable future.
Sign the Petition
Join us in demanding that Bayer act responsibly and protect our health and environment. Sign the petition today to urge Bayer’s Supervisory Board and Board of Management to develop safer chemicals and retire toxic brands like Roundup.
- Friends of the Earth (2024), "New Roundup, New Risks."
- Carey Gillam, The New LeDe (22 October 2024), "Bayer’s new Roundup products appear more toxic than prior formulations, new report asserts."
- Carmen Costas-Ferreira, Rafael Durán, Lilian R F Faro, International Journal of Molecular Sciences (21 April 2022), "Toxic Effects of Glyphosate on the Nervous System: A Systematic Review."
- Irvin Jackson, About Lawsuits (23 October 2024), "Reformulated Roundup May Be Even More Toxic to Human Health and Environment: Study."
- Olivia Rosane, Common Dreams (22 October 2024), "'Outrageous': New Roundup Is 45 Times More Toxic."
The Petition:
To the Members of Bayer’s Supervisory Board and Board of Management,
We, the undersigned, are deeply concerned about the recent revelations regarding the toxicity of Bayer’s new Roundup formulations. Despite Bayer’s promise to eliminate glyphosate, a chemical linked to cancer and other severe health issues, from its commercial Roundup weed killers by 2023, it has come to light that the replacements are significantly more dangerous to human health and the environment.
Safety: The introduction of chemicals that are 45 times more toxic than glyphosate endangers the health of consumers and those exposed to these products. The continued use of such harmful substances compromises public safety and undermines trust in Bayer’s commitment to health and well-being.
Humanity: The impact of these toxic chemicals extends beyond individual health, affecting families and communities. The increased risk of non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma and other health issues associated with Roundup use highlights a profound disregard for human life and dignity.
Conservation: The environmental damage caused by the new Roundup formulations threatens ecosystems, wildlife, and biodiversity. Bees, birds, aquatic life, and essential soil organisms are at greater risk, disrupting ecological balance and sustainability.
We urge Bayer to take immediate and decisive action by:
- Developing and Implementing Safer Alternatives: Invest in research and development to create herbicides that are effective yet safe for humans and the environment, completely free of glyphosate and other hazardous chemicals.
- Retiring Toxic Brands: Phase out Roundup and other products containing harmful ingredients. Transition to safer, eco-friendly alternatives to restore trust and ensure public and environmental health.
- Enhancing Transparency and Accountability: Provide clear, honest information about product ingredients and associated risks. Engage with independent health and environmental experts to validate safety claims.
- Strengthening Regulatory Compliance: Work closely with regulatory bodies to exceed minimum safety standards and advocate for stricter regulations to protect consumers and the environment.
By prioritizing safety, humanity, and conservation, Bayer can lead the industry towards a more sustainable and ethical future. These actions will not only safeguard public health and the environment but also restore Bayer’s reputation as a responsible and forward-thinking company. Together, we can ensure a better, healthier future for all.
Sincerely,
