In Switzerland, exposure to pesticides will be tested on 300 school children among the vineyards

There was a lot of talk a few weeks ago about the dissatisfaction of environmental defense organizations after the launch of the new Ecophyto plan, supposed to reduce the use of phytosanitary products in France. In Switzerland too, the issue of pesticides is resurfacing. The canton of Valais is concerned about the exposure of school children among the vineyards. A study, almost unprecedented in Europe, has just been launched to see things more clearly.

Chamoson is a town of 4,200 inhabitants on the mountainside above the Rhône plain. With 4.2 million vines, the largest wine-growing commune in Valais is also the most exposed to the consequences of pesticides. Hence the interest in coming to test the children here, explains Professor Samuel Fuhrimann, the director of the study. “Children are the population most at risk. They have a lower body mass than adults: this means that even a lower concentration of pesticides can be more dangerous for them.”

Concretely, the tests take place during four distinct periods, before and during the spreading period. Researchers will analyze the urine and respiratory volume of approximately 300 children. They all also wear silicone bracelets on them, a sort of pesticide sponge. “It was time to do this study”estimates Valais Minister of Health Matthias Reynard, and without preconceptions.

“It’s a very emotional subject in Switzerland as in Francehe observes. Farmers and winegrowers feel like they are being unfairly singled out. Families and residents are worried about their health and that of their children, and have the impression of not being heard.” Many of the children tested are also the daughters and sons of winegrowers. Results are not expected until next year.