EPA Approves New Version Of Weed Killer 2,4-D — Enlist Duo

The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has approved a new version of the 2,4-D weed killer, Enlist Duo. The chemical herbicide is designed for use on GMO corn and genetically modified soybeans. The new version of a 1940s-era weed killer will also be used on a new set of genetically engineered crops which were recently approved by the USDA.

Although some in the agricultural industry have reportedly been eagerly awaiting the approval of Dow’s new 2,4-D Enlist Duo, organic growers and environmental activists have voiced public health concerns, and want more studies on the chemical herbicide.

According to the Center for Food Safety, Dow is pushing the federal government into an era of “unprecedented” genetically modified corn and soybean production. GMO corn and soybeans have reportedly been designed to survive multiple sprayings of 2,4-D — which is reportedly part of the highly toxic chemical recipe used to create Agent Orange.

“When used according to label directions. Enlist Duo is safe for everyone, including infants, the developing fetus, the elderly and more highly exposed groups such as agricultural workers,” an EPA statement released after the approval notice was issued on Wednesday said.

Excerpt for a Center for Food Safety release citing a link between 2,4-D, Agent Orange, and health issues.

“Dow’s ‘Agent Orange’ corn will trigger a large increase in 2,4-D use — and our exposure to this toxic herbicide — yet USDA has failed to investigate the potential harms caused by such an increase. This is part of a growing problem, an escalating chemical arms race going on across America’s heartland. Dow Chemical is hyping GE 2,4-D corn and soy as the solution to glyphosate-resistant weeds, but GE crop systems caused the ‘superweeds’ in the first place. Like Roundup before it, 2,4-D is only a temporary solution that will require more and more toxic chemicals leaching into our environment and food supply.”

Superweeds, possibly caused by genetically modified plants and glyphosate chemical pesticides, are a growing problem. According to agriculture experts, huge weeds are becoming more prevalent in pastures and fields around the globe. Increased exposure to chemical pesticides and to herbicide-resistant crops is being blamed for the growth of the superweeds, says Natural News. One weed, the Palmer amaranth pigweed, reportedly can grow 10 feet tall at an inch per day rate and possesses stems thick enough to damage agriculture equipment.

GMO opponents are threatening to embark upon legal action to blow the use of Dow AgroScience’s Enlist Duo week killer. EPA has not followed the law. In their view, a massive increase in the use of 2,4-D will have no impact on endangered species. They are supposed to consult with U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service.

“They did not,” Earthjustice attorney Greg Loarie said.

How do you feel about Dow’s new version of the 2,4-D Enlist Due weed killer?

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