Ways to Avoid Pesticides
- Eat organic foods.
- If you are not able to buy organic foods (because they tend to be more expensive or they are not readily available):
- Buy local produce when in season. Eating food grown close to home is healthier for the planet
- Eat a variety of fruits and vegetables to avoid eating the same type that may have a higher level of residue.
- Throw away the outer leaves of leafy vegetables, such as lettuce and cabbage.
- Wash fruits and vegetables in warm water, or a mixture of water and baking soda, and scrub with a brush.
- Trim the fat and skin from meat and fish because some pesticide residues tend to concentrate in animal fat.
- Buy organic fibres. Cotton uses more insecticides than any other crop.
- Avoid using anti-bacterials that contain pesticides. Use soap and water instead.
- Rid the buildings where you work and live of pesticides. Talk to building management and landlords about using less toxic alternatives.
- Use non-toxic or less toxic alternatives to pesticides when caring for your lawn and garden.
- If you have pesticides and pesticide containers you want to dispose of, be sure to dispose of them in an environmentally responsible way. Never burn or pour pesticides down the drain. Do not re-use empty containers. Contact your local council to find out how to dispose of hazardous waste.
