June 25, 2025
Chemicals are not the answer
For decades, chemical herbicides have been seen as a reliable, cost-effective way to keep weeds under control. But that perception is changing. Beneath the convenience lies a range of hidden costs that can affect everything from public health to regulatory compliance and soil health.
In this blog, we break down the true costs of chemical weed control—and why alternatives like NaturaVolt’s electric weeding technology are gaining ground.
Environmental Impact
Many common herbicides, including glyphosate-based products, can have far-reaching consequences on the environment:
- Water contamination – Runoff from sprayed areas can pollute rivers, lakes, and groundwater. Once in the water supply, chemicals are difficult to remove and can impact aquatic life.
- Biodiversity loss – Chemical herbicides don’t discriminate. They can damage surrounding vegetation, disrupt natural plant communities, and eliminate habitats for insects and birds.
- Soil health degradation – Long-term chemical use can reduce microbial diversity in soil, which is essential for nutrient cycling and long-term fertility.
These impacts aren’t always immediately visible, but they build up over time—leading to soil fatigue, resistant weed species, and damaged ecosystems.
Health Concerns Are Growing
In 2015, the World Health Organization’s International Agency for Research on Cancer classified glyphosate as “probably carcinogenic to humans.” Since then, lawsuits and scientific scrutiny have mounted, putting herbicide manufacturers and users under increasing pressure.
In many countries, the use of certain herbicides is now restricted—or banned outright. Regulatory costs and legal risks are rising, and organisations caught using banned substances may face heavy fines or reputational damage.
Economic and Reputational Costs
The cost of managing chemical residues, dealing with public backlash, or facing legal claims can far outweigh the initial price of the product. Organisations that rely on chemical weedkillers risk damaging their environmental credentials and public trust.
A Safer, Smarter Investment
NaturaVolt offers a non-chemical solution that eliminates weeds at the root without harming people, wildlife, or the environment. Our electric weeding services are cost-effective, long-lasting, and free from the burdens of licensing, PPE, or residue management.
Clients using NaturaVolt avoid the hidden costs of chemical herbicides while aligning with ESG goals, biodiversity plans, and public health guidelines.
Contact us today to future-proof your weed management strategy with electrical weed control.