2021, Volume 29, Paper 4
ISSN: 2209-6612

The Future of Glyphosate in Australian Agriculture?

Alison Walsh – School of Agriculture and Environment, University of Western Australia
Ross Kingwell –  School of Agriculture and Environment, University of Western Australia, Department of Primary Industries and Regional Development, Western Australia and Australian Export Grains Innovation Centre

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.

Keywords: glyphosate, farming, grain production, grain prices

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