Hazardous to humans and Monarch butterflies, the Environmental Protection Agency faces legal action after approving a new herbicide blend for use on genetically engineered crops.
Earlier this month, the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) approved a new herbicide blend known as “Enlist Duo” for use on genetically engineered (GE) corn and soybeans. Enlist Duo is composed of 2,4-D and glyphosate; 2,4-D is an active agent in Agent Orange, and glyphosate is commonly known as “Roundup”.
Two suits have been filed against the EPA following Enlist Duo’s approval. One suit alleges the herbicide blend will do irreparable harm to the Monarch butterfly population and threaten human health. The other suit alleges the EPA did not sufficiently analyze the impacts of 2,4-D and violated the Endangered Species Act and the Federal Insecticide, Fungicide, and Rodenticide Act by approving Enlist Duo. The EPA claims to have done a full risk evaluation before issuing approval, however, Roundup (glyphosate) has reportedly not been risk assessed since 1993, despite its widespread usage.
The EPA’s investigation into 2,4-D shows it to be dangerous to human health, with the potential to damage the kidneys, liver, and nervous system. Transportation of 2,4-D from treated crops to other surfaces through transfer and leaching, called drift, is also recognized by the EPA. Human exposure and resulting health effects are most likely to occur through ingesting contaminated food and drinking water, working in or near 2,4-D manufacturing and application, and working or living near an area treated with 2,4-D.
The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA), which recently approved Dow’s GE corn and soy crops, predicts usage of Enlist Duo to grow heavily. Use of Enlist Duo on Dow’s GE crops, also termed “Agent Orange” crops, is predicted to lead to weeds becoming resistant to both of Enlist Duo’s components.
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