Washington, DC, April 13, 2005 -- Statements about the safety of lawn and garden products made in a news release issued today by two environmental organizations are “inaccurate and exaggerated,” according the Consumer Specialty Products Association.
“Lawn and garden products provide important health and quality of life benefits, and do not pose undue risks when used properly,” said CSPA President Chris Cathcart. “These products are among the most highly regulated on the market today, and consumers can use them with confidence while following label instructions.”
CSPA pointed out that lawn and garden products do more than create a lush lawn and beautiful flowers. They also offer protection from allergies by preventing noxious weeds and limit damage to structures and property by controlling insects. Lawn and garden products also eliminate insects and ticks that can spread diseases such as West Nile virus and Lyme disease. By promoting healthy lawns and ornamental plants, these products also prevent soil erosion and reduce dust that can cause respiratory problems.
Cathcart further said that the environmentalists’ news release was inaccurate in stating that the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) does not evaluate product mixtures which is required under FIFRA. He also said that the release was exaggerated to needlessly influence consumers’ behavior.
“Like all pesticides, lawn and garden products are extensively regulated by the EPA”, said Cathcart. “Manufacturers spend millions of dollars conducting extensive tests prior to submitting data to the EPA.” Before granting a registration, EPA examines the chemistry and toxicity of each product’s active ingredients and the product mixture. The agency also reviews product labels to ensure that they include directions for the proper use and storage of the product.
CSPA said that lawn and garden products are carefully formulated to satisfy specific needs and the criticism of products that kill weeds while fertilizing is unjustified.