Pesticides by their very nature are highly toxic. 800 different chemicals are used in pesticides worldwide and sold in tens of thousands of different mixtures.The health risks of exposure to these chemicals are clear, just reading the label is enough to tell us that pesticides are dangerous, but research has shown close links between pesticides and cancer, hormonal imbalance and birth defects.

'One tablespoonful of spilled pesticide concentrate could pollute the water supply of 200,000 people for a day'.  (UK Ministry of Agriculture Fisheries and Food) 

The disposal of pesticides raises further issues, many people store unused products for years in garden sheds and cupboards, this poses significant risks to our children, pets and wildlife and no doubt makes up a significant proportion of the 90% of human poisoning incidents reported to the National Poison Information Services that occur at home.  Millions of pounds are spent every year on removing pesticides from our drinking water, whether they can every be truly removed is questionable and the the residues remain in our rivers, lakes and groundwater.

Slug pellets are responsible for the deaths of many birds, hedgehogs and other animals – all animals that should be encouraged and who contribute to harmony in the garden. There are many viable alternatives to chemical pesticides in the garden. Natural gardening promotes harmony – for example encouraging natural predators (see links below) such as ladybirds, dragonflies and frogs goes a long way to keeping some pests under control, mesh covers, screens and cold frames can be used and some pests can be discouraged with planting – for example slugs detest lavender.

In addition, harmless, non invasive pesticides can be used that discourage aphids and other pests in a natural way without damaging the environment and avoiding exposure to harmful chemicals.   Companies listed below sell a range of natural pesticides online.

http://www.pan-uk.org PAN UK is an independent, non-profit organisation. They work nationally and internationally with like-minded groups and individuals concerned with health, environment and development to: eliminate the hazards of pesticides, reduce dependence on pesticides and prevent unnecessary expansion of use and increase the sustainable and ecological alternatives to chemical pest control

http://www.bats.org.uk  The bat Conservation Trust provide advice on how to attract bats to your garden

http://www.dragonflysoc.org.uk  The British Dragonfly Society produce a booklet on how to encourage dragonflies to the garden.

http://www.britishhedgehogs.org.uk Provide a help line offering advice on caring and encouraging Hedgehogs in the wild and garden