The Future of glyphosate in Australian agriculture

Document Type

Article

Publication Date

11-4-2021

Journal Title

Australasian Agribusiness Review

ISSN

2209-6612

Keywords

Glyphosate, Farming, Grain production, Grain prices, Herbicide, Bans

Disciplines

Agribusiness | Agricultural Economics | Agricultural Education | Agricultural Science | Agronomy and Crop Sciences | Bioinformatics | Environmental Education | Environmental Health | Environmental Health and Protection | Environmental Indicators and Impact Assessment | Environmental Monitoring | Family and Consumer Sciences | Food Science | Natural Resources Management and Policy | Toxicology

Abstract

Glyphosate is a herbicide used widely in Australian and global agriculture. We examine policy, legal and environmental influences over its use. The likely economic consequences for farm businesses and food consumers of widespread bans on the use of glyphosate in agriculture are discussed. We outline why Australian agriculture and Australian food consumers, compared to those in other key global regions, would be comparatively less affected by an unlikely global ban on glyphosate. From an Australian public policy perspective, we argue that chemical registration of herbicides should continue to be evidence-based. However, we also recommend greater investment by government to better understand societal concerns regarding herbicides. Enhanced social engagement and two-way communication will help secure and build trust in an evidence-based policy response to chemical use in Australia.

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