International agricultural company Syngenta has announced it will cease global production of paraquat, a highly toxic weed killer linked to Parkinson’s disease, by the end of June. The decision comes amid thousands of lawsuits from individuals claiming exposure to paraquat has led to their Parkinson’s diagnosis. Mike Hollands, president of Syngenta U.K., said: “This decision is about focusing our resources where they deliver the greatest value for our business and our customers.” Paraquat, sold under the brand name Gramoxone, is banned in over 70 countries due to its health risks but remains legal in the U.S.
