London 14°C 17 km/h wind Updated 9:30 am
HomeMNN UK
MNN UK · January 15, 2026 · 1 min read

Cancer-linked pesticide glyphosate found in UK playground tests

What happened: Tests at playgrounds in London and nearby counties detected traces of glyphosate, a weedkiller classified by WHO as a probable carcinogen. Campaigners warn that local authorities continue to use glyphosate-based herbicides in public green spaces.

Why it matters:

  • Children playing in these areas may be exposed to potentially harmful chemicals.
  • The findings increase pressure on UK authorities to restrict or regulate glyphosate use more strictly.

MNN Take: Glyphosate has been under scrutiny since WHO identified it as a probable carcinogen in 2015. Its continued use in public spaces raises concerns about public health, especially for vulnerable groups like children.

Sources: Guardian UK