A call has been made to end the use of Glyphosate weed killers in Cardigan to reduce their impact on the River Teifi.

A 103-strong petition, entitled Phase Out Glyphosate in Aberteifi (Cardigan) for EcoFriendly Weed Control, before members of Ceredigion County Council’s September Cabinet meeting asked that “Ceredigion County Council end the use of glyphosate-based weed killers on all public land”.

“We urge the council to replace these chemicals with practical, viable alternatives such as targeted steam, hot foam, and natural organic herbicides.

“We object to chemical shortcuts that threaten public health, domestic animals, and local biodiversity.

“Viable, modern alternatives exist, and we ask the council to launch an immediate trial of these methods in our town.

“As part of this trial and general approach, we request that the council first assess town spaces to identify specific corridors, patches, and verges that can be left entirely alone for insects and pollinators.

“Eradication is not always necessary.

“Where the council deems weed control to be functionally required, the non-chemical alternatives should then be utilised.

“Aberteifi sits on the Afon Teifi.

“Rain washes glyphosate from pavements into storm drains and directly into the river.

“This chemical is highly toxic to aquatic life, threatening local fish, otters, and river plants.

“Children and pets regularly use our town pavements and parks.

“Exposing vulnerable residents and animals to a chemical classified by global health authorities as a probable carcinogen is an unacceptable and unnecessary risk.”

The petition says that Cardigan has an “historic heritage of civic pride” and “we must channel this pride into becoming an ecologically responsible town”, calling the transition “entirely viable.”

Members agreed to note the petition, calling for a “commitment from the council to launch a pesticide-free trial zone in a designated part of the town this season,” the matter being considered by the leadership group.