European Ban On Using Creosote

Creosote, once the British gardeners' favourite wood preservative for over 100 years, has been banned for domestic use following an EU directive. Retailers have already stopped stocking it, and householders with supplies should have used it or disposed of it by the end of June 2003. Recent research on mice has shown that contact with creosote increased the potential for cancer.

In addition, the new law aims to eliminate the use of creosote-treated wood wherever there is a risk of frequent skin contact, eg. inside any building, in playgrounds, parks, gardens and outdoor recreational facilities and in the manufacture of garden furniture.

Creosote is regarded as hazardous waste, and can cause serious environmental damage if it is not disposed of correctly.

Substitutes

Less toxic creosote substitutes are now  available from your usual supplier. For advice on how to dispose of creosote or any other hazardous waste in your possession contact the Client Services Refuse helpline on 01386 565257 or email: client.services@wychavon.gov.uk.

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For more information contact:

Environmental Protection, Environmental Services,
Wychavon District Council, Civic Centre, Queen Elizabeth Drive, Pershore, Worcs. WR10 1PT

Telephone: 01386 565015 - between 9am-5pm, Monday-Friday
Fax: 01386 561826
Email: environmental.health@wychavon.gov.uk