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Glyphosate, emblematic herbicide of our times, arouses as much interest in agricultural circles as among the general public. The result of research by Swiss chemist Henri Martin in the 1950s, this molecule is similar to a weak organic acid, structurally close to glycine – a natural amino acid augmented with a phosphonate group. Its unique molecular configuration gives it remarkable solubility in water.
Initially patented in 1964 for its qualities as a wetting agent, glyphosate was then developed by the Monsanto company as a total herbicide from 1974. In 2000, glyphosate fell into the public domain and its use quickly became widespread in conventional agriculture.
Glyphosate: a ubiquitous but controversial herbicide
This non-selective herbicide works by inhibiting an enzyme crucial to plant growth, thus eliminating any plant that comes into contact with it. Its rapid action and moderate cost make it a popular ally for farmers, who use it to weed before sowing, after harvest, or between cultivated rows.
To optimize its absorption by plants, glyphosate is generally formulated as an isopropylamine salt: this is the famous Roundup. Adjuvants such as polyoxyethylene amine are incorporated to increase its effectiveness, although their toxicity led to their ban in France in 2016.
Nevertheless, the use of glyphosate remains at the heart of lively controversy. The International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC) classified it as “probably carcinogenic” to humans in 2015, a categorization contested by other bodies such as the European Chemicals Agency (ECHA) and the US Environmental Protection Agency (EPA).
IARC had highlighted “case-control studies of occupational exposure conducted in Sweden, the United States and Canada have shown increased risks” of leukemia (blood cancer). Harmful effects later confirmed in 2021 by INSERM following a collective expertise.
Epidemiological studies suggest a potential link between exposure to glyphosate and certain pathologies, notably non-Hodgkin's lymphomas (cancer of the lymphatic system), but these conclusions remain subject to debate.
Furthermore, glyphosate, once in contact with the environment, degrades into another substance, aminomethylphosphonic acid (AMPA). A very persistent and stable acid that is likely to strongly contaminate waterways and impact biodiversity.
L’AMPA is toxic to many aquatic species, such as algae, crustaceans and fish. It can disrupt their growth, reproduction and survival and unbalances ecosystems by accumulating in living organisms.
A complex political and environmental question
France today finds itself faced with a Cornelian dilemma regarding the’ use of glyphosate, seeking to reconcile public health imperatives and the demands of the agricultural world. For many farmers, glyphosate is an essential tool for effectively weeding their crops and maintaining their competitiveness. It is an entire economic model that relies on its use.
Despite the controversies, glyphosate is still authorized in the European Union and its use has been renewed until 2033. A decision taken by the European Commission, which proposed this renewal last year; a proposal adopted by the Member States.
200% Deposit Bonus up to €3,000 180% First Deposit Bonus up to $20,000The powerful agrochemical lobbies are exerting considerable pressure to maintain this authorisation, while environmental movements and a growing section of the population are calling for its outright ban. A possible ban on glyphosate could nevertheless have serious economic consequences, particularly in certain sectors such as viticulture and arboriculture.
At the European level, the question of authorising glyphosate remains a subject of dissension between the Member States, with some arguing for its total ban, others ardently defending its maintenance. The crucial decision on whether or not to renew the authorisation of this substance is expected in 2027, suggesting particularly lively debates
New discoveries and hypotheses on the persistence of glyphosate
A recent study by the University of Tübingen in Germany and published on July 23 has brought to light a surprising fact: the persistence of glyphosate in European waterwayss may be more attributable to household products than to agricultural practices; at least in Europe.
According to Carolin Huhn, co-author of the study, ” Municipal wastewater plays a role. Some of the study results also show us that we need to locate a source of glyphosate close to households ».
The results of this research suggest that AMPA is also a by-product of a molecule widely used in detergents and laundry detergents: aminopolyphosphonates. These compounds, used as anti-scaling agents and stabilizers, would degrade into glyphosate during wastewater treatment.
The revelation could upend glyphosate reduction strategies, which have so far focused primarily on agriculture, and have a major impact on water resource management policies.
Environmental activists who have been vocal in their push to ban the controversial herbicide are now being forced to reconsider their potential targets, now including household cleaning products.
Carolin Huhn sums it up: “These results may explain why it has not been, and will not be, possible to reduce glyphosate pollution in rivers in Europe through herbicide reduction strategies. We are aware that our results may have considerable implications, particularly for industry and policy makers, but also for how surface water monitoring can be improved ».
Ultimately, the glyphosate issue is proving to be much more complex than initially envisaged, transcending agricultural concerns to embrace broader societal issues. Recent discoveries about its potential origin in household products open up new perspectives, while further complicating the debate. As the other one said: ” We're not out of the sand! “
- Controversial herbicide glyphosate remains authorised in the EU until 2033 despite debates over its health and environmental risks.
- A recent study suggests that household products contribute to glyphosate pollution in Europe's waters
- This discovery could redefine glyphosate reduction strategies and influence future environmental policies.
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