I'd like to confirm that Round-Up Pro (EPA # 524-475) is okay to use for weed control in sidewalk cracks. The only reference to weeds I can find is that the best practice is to hand-pull-is that the only option? In a hot/humid climate, fertilizer use is minimal to none because plants grow very easily, but weed control is a big concern.
Are weed considered 'pests' and products must fall under SF Hazard criteria Tier 3?
Jason Franken
Sustainability ProfessionalLEEDuser Expert
608 thumbs up
September 6, 2011 - 10:34 am
The literal requirements of the credit focus mainly on animal and insect pests, but the credit intent is that non-chemical methods are used in lieu of herbicides wherever possible as well. The SF Hazard Screening List lists Roundup Pro (and it's active ingredient "glyphosate") as a Tier II product, therefore it would not be considered a least-toxic alternative. I'd suggest spending a bit of time researching non-chemical herbicides, as there are a number on the market, and use hand-pulling as your backup plan. Remember, if all else fails, you are allowed to use a non least-toxic product during your performance period, but you need to explain the least-toxic methods that were found to be ineffective before resorting to the toxic option.
SIG - Sustainability Main Account
Sustainability ConsultantsSustainable Investment Group (SIG)
86 thumbs up
March 23, 2012 - 4:17 pm
Thanks Jason.
I'd like to keep his open and ask if anyone out there (maybe a landscape vendor?) has a recommendation for non-chemical alternative to round-up? It's the one product I can't convince them to give-up, and I'd like to suggest an alternative.