Cosmetic pesticides have long been used by many people to control weeds and other "undesirable" plants in yards, gardens, roadsides and public lands.
Now, the B.C. Liberal government has introduced a Special Committee on Cosmetic Pesticides to investigate, conduct province-wide consultations and issue recommendations for the legislated elimination of unnecessary pesticides.
Lorraine LeBourdais is a local organic grower and founding member of the Community Enhancement and Economic Development Society (C.E.E.D.S.).
After a lifetime of growing produce and plants, and a mother of two, LeBourdais says she can't imagine why people want to use pesticides.
"I don't see how anyone in their right mind would advocate for using cosmetic pesticides. It's common knowledge pesticides are linked to cancer, so why would anybody want to increase that?"
LeBourdais notes C.E.E.D.S. doesn't endorse the use of any pesticides, but feels most strongly against their use for cosmetics and in public yards.
Children in school yards and parks are especially vulnerable, as they have no choice what they are exposed to, she explains, and can ingest chemicals from plants by getting them in their mouths during their normal play.
"We've come a long way; look at the way we used to demonize the dandelion. But we've learned a lot since the old days, what a valuable plant it is."
As people understand more about the balance of nature and soil and plant health, LeBourdais says they learn to manage without the use of pesticides rather than jumping for that quick solution.
Some agricultural growers may argue some pesticides are necessary for crop control, and while LeBourdais disagrees, she says there is most definitely no reason to use them for cosmetic purposes.
The Canadian Cancer Society BC and Yukon (CCSBCY) is among several organizations that recently made a presentation to the committee in support of a province-wide ban on the use and sale of cosmetic pesticides.
Others included physicians and scientists who presented evidence linking pesticide exposure to childhood cancers and learning disabilities in children.
Says CCSBCY chief executive officer Barbara Kaminsky: "Why would the B.C. government continue to put the health of British Columbians and especially children at risk?"
To provide input or comments to the committee, visit the website at www.leg.bc.ca/pesticidescommittee to complete the questionnaire or to get information on how to send a written submission.
The deadline for submissions is Dec. 16, 2011.