2-The Importance of the Issue

Suicide by Pesticide - The Importance of the Issue

Why is the issue important?

When analyzing cost vs. benefit of pesticides, proponents often omit hidden and indirect costs that are not as quantifiable. A recent study published in "Sustainable Agriculture Reviews" factored in hidden costs such as illnesses, fatalities, and environmental impacts. Researchers analyzed 61 papers and concluded a new health cost calculation estimate of $15 billion in the US only, a tenfold increase compared to prior estimates of $1.5 billion. This example shows that society has been underestimating the negative effects of pesticides and is likely to continue to do so as long as this issue is not brought to light. While the study was not conducted here in Canada, the same principle applies, that hidden, implicit costs are not being reported and brought to attention. By bringing awareness to the issue, we are pressuring supporters of pesticides to recognize the "true cost" of using them.

 Human Health

There is substantial evidence to support the conclusion that pesticides affect human health. Carcinogenic pesticides continue to be used on Canadian soil, undoubtedly causing harm to children and families for generations to come. A UN report published on January 24 of 2017 estimates 200,000 people on average die yearly from pesticide poisoning. The report claims "Reliance on hazardous pesticides is a short-term solution that undermines the rights to adequate food and health for present and future generations." 

 It is time to crack down on these harsh chemicals linked to cancer, Alzheimer's and Parkinson's disease, hormone disruption, birth defects, sterility, and neurological effects. An unnecessary burden and cost is placed on healthcare systems. This issue concerns the safety of every Canadian.

Environmental Impacts


The honeybee crisis is a huge global problem that needs to be properly addressed, as the decline of the honeybee population is unsustainable. Neonicotinoids are contributing to the decline, jeopardizing the global stock of crops. Without the main pollinators of nature, crop yields in Canada will be significantly lower, jeopardizing markets and a portion of the economy. 

Pesticides are also known to harm small animals and fish. Without these small organisms, complex food webs could be disrupted and mass extinctions can ensue. By banning pesticides, we are lessening human interference in nature and allowing for biodiversity and healthy ecosystems.




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