Tell the EPA to End the Use of Methyl Iodide

Environmental groups have been working hard the last five years to stop the use of cancer-causing methyl iodide, called by scientists "one of the most toxic chemicals on earth." Now, that work is beginning to pay off.

The EPA is reconsidering its decision on methyl iodide, despite intense pressure from Arysta -- the largest private pesticide company in the world -- to keep it on the market. On March 17, the agency opened public comment on a petition to end all uses of this pesticide, nationwide. The science is clear: This pesticide is too toxic to be used safely.

We need your voice at the table. Please urge Administrator Lisa Jackson to follow the science and end methyl iodide use..Use the form below to send your comments today.

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Please take action by April 29, 2011.

Strawberry field photo courtesy Flickr Commons/benketaro.

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Methyl iodide is highly toxic to mammals and aquatic invertebrates. It's a known carcinogen and neurotoxin that can cause late-term miscarriages. In addition to the threat posed to farm workers and communities living next to strawberry fields, methyl iodide could contaminate groundwater.
 
The EPA first registered methyl iodide as a pesticide in 2007, despite this statement from more than 50 scientists, including five Nobel Laureates: "It is astonishing then that the Office of Pesticide Programs is working to legalize broadcast releases of one of the more toxic chemicals used in manufacturing into the environment." EPA approval came at the end of the Bush administration.

Learn more about the Center's Pesticide Reduction Campaign.