Glyphosate Detected in UK Playgrounds Sparks Safety Concerns

Published: 15 January 2026. The English Chronicle Desk. The English Chronicle Online.

Recent tests have revealed traces of the controversial herbicide glyphosate in playgrounds across the UK. Campaigners warn that children could be exposed to this chemical, which the World Health Organization classifies as a probable human carcinogen. The findings emerged after Pesticides Action Network UK (PAN UK) conducted swabs and soil sampling in playgrounds across London and surrounding counties, showing residues of glyphosate or its breakdown product AMPA in eight out of thirteen sites tested. These results have sparked renewed calls for stricter controls over urban herbicide use.

Glyphosate remains authorised for public use in the UK, despite evidence linking it to cancer and other serious illnesses. Experts warn that exposure, particularly among young children who frequently touch soil and playground equipment, could pose significant health risks. PAN UK highlighted that the only location free of glyphosate contamination was Hackney, which became glyphosate-free in public spaces in 2021. Nick Mole of PAN UK expressed concern, emphasising that playgrounds should be safe zones for children.

Professor Michael Antoniou, a molecular genetics and toxicology specialist at King’s College London, said research has shown glyphosate exposure increases the likelihood of liver and kidney disease, leukaemia, and other cancers. He added that current regulatory safety claims do not withstand the scrutiny of recent scientific studies. Antoniou stressed that eliminating unnecessary glyphosate exposure, especially in playgrounds, is essential to protect children and public health.

The Health and Safety Executive is expected to re-evaluate glyphosate authorisation later this year, with campaigners anticipating a public consultation on its renewal. Pressure is mounting on local authorities to reconsider their herbicide strategies. Siân Berry, Green MP for Brighton Pavilion, has proposed legislation urging councils to phase out glyphosate in public areas, arguing that alternative methods exist to control weeds safely while maintaining green spaces for children.

Parents across the country have reacted with concern to the findings. At Victoria Park in Tower Hamlets, Dafina Bozha expressed alarm that her daughter might be exposed to carcinogenic chemicals during routine play. She highlighted the importance of playgrounds remaining safe environments, free from chemical hazards that could affect children’s health. Another mother, Naz B, criticised glyphosate use as incompatible with the natural environment of playgrounds, noting that families expect organic and safe alternatives to maintain public green spaces.

Campaigners emphasise that glyphosate exposure is avoidable. PAN UK’s tests demonstrated that proper planning and alternative weed control methods can limit risk in urban areas. Critics argue that continued reliance on chemical herbicides in parks, playing fields, and pavements ignores safer approaches used in several UK councils. Public opinion increasingly favours restriction, particularly given the chemical’s established carcinogenic potential.

The debate over glyphosate reflects broader concerns about chemical exposure in everyday environments. Urban green spaces, once seen primarily as recreational zones, are now under scrutiny for safety standards, particularly concerning vulnerable populations such as children. Experts suggest that monitoring, public awareness campaigns, and transparent regulatory reviews are key to mitigating risks while maintaining functional and healthy public spaces.

Recent studies indicate that even low-level exposure to glyphosate can accumulate over time, raising questions about long-term health consequences. Research continues to examine the relationship between chronic low-dose exposure and diseases such as kidney and liver damage. Campaigners argue that reducing public access to glyphosate-based herbicides should be a precautionary measure until conclusive long-term studies are published.

The issue has also prompted local authorities to reconsider their pesticide policies. Hackney’s decision to go glyphosate-free in 2021 serves as a model for other councils aiming to balance maintenance requirements with public health concerns. PAN UK urges other municipalities to adopt similar measures, highlighting the feasibility of maintaining green spaces without reliance on hazardous chemicals.

In addition to direct health risks, glyphosate use raises environmental concerns. Soil contamination, water runoff, and impacts on urban wildlife have been documented, further motivating calls for safer alternatives. Advocates for chemical-free green spaces stress that communities should be able to access parks and playgrounds without fear of exposure to substances linked to serious illness.

As public awareness grows, both government regulators and local councils face increasing pressure to act decisively. Parents and advocacy groups insist that the precautionary principle should guide policy, ensuring that playgrounds remain safe havens rather than sources of potential chemical harm. Ongoing dialogue between scientists, policymakers, and the public will be crucial in shaping future regulations around herbicide use in urban settings.

The findings from London and the home counties illustrate a clear need for review. Experts and campaigners alike stress that proactive measures, including reducing glyphosate use and implementing safer alternatives, can significantly limit exposure. Public support for reform reflects wider societal concerns about chemical safety and children’s well-being.

The conversation surrounding glyphosate is not limited to playgrounds. Councils face broader scrutiny over pesticide use in parks, public walkways, and recreational areas. Ensuring effective oversight while balancing operational needs requires transparency, science-based guidance, and public engagement. The debate underscores the importance of placing children’s health and environmental sustainability at the forefront of urban planning decisions.

While government bodies evaluate glyphosate authorisation, public campaigns continue to raise awareness. Advocacy groups highlight that vigilance, informed choice, and precautionary measures are essential to safeguard children and communities from unnecessary chemical exposure. As the issue evolves, parents and local authorities remain central to implementing meaningful change, ensuring safe and accessible green spaces for everyone.

The recent tests at UK playgrounds demonstrate both the prevalence of glyphosate and the potential risks it poses. Campaigners insist that chemical alternatives and careful planning can create safer public environments. With growing public concern and scientific evidence mounting, the stage is set for significant policy reconsideration regarding urban herbicide use across the UK.

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