A SIX-month trial of an environmentally-friendly way to kill weeds and moss in Minehead streets is being run by town councillors.

The town council is looking for ways to replace glyphosate-based herbicides which traditionally have been used to treat weeds.

Glyphosates are being phased out in the UK following Brexit and will be illegal by December of next year amid worries about their environmental impact and possible effects on genetic material and nervous systems in animals and humans.

A weed-killing trial with an environmentally friendly product is underway in Minehead.
A weed-killing trial with an environmentally friendly product is underway in Minehead. PHOTO: Minehead Town Council. ( )

Minehead councillors have taken delivery of equipment for an innovative new system called Foamstream, which uses hot water insulated by a biodegradable foam to effectively control weeds without the use of toxic chemicals.

Minehead Mayor Cllr Craig Palmer said: “We are excited to trial this innovative, chemical-free solution for controlling street weeds.

“Foamstream aligns with our commitment to preserving environmental health while addressing issues important to local residents.

“This trial responds to concerns raised by residents about the need for a more sustainable way to manage weeds on streets and pavements throughout Minehead.”

Cllr Palmer said people might see a biodegradable foam residue in areas which were being treated, which was an integral part of the process, acting as an insulating layer to enhance the hot water application, and completely safe and environmentally friendly.

He said: “It is derived from natural plant-based sources and will dissipate on its own within about 30 minutes after treatment.

Controlling weeds in The Parade, Minehead, with a new product being trialled by the town council.
Controlling weeds in The Parade, Minehead, with a new product being trialled by the town council. PHOTO: Minehead Town Council. ( )

“There is no need for concern about any potential harmful effects.”

The council is encouraging residents to provide feedback on the Foamstream trial by calling its offices on 01643 707213 or emailing [email protected].

Cllr Palmer said: “Public input will be valuable in evaluating the effectiveness and community acceptance of this sustainable weed control approach.”

Foamstream is made from natural plant oils and sugars, including wheat, maize, potatoes, rapeseed, and coconut oil.

It can also be used for tasks such as gum removal, power washing and sanitisation, controlling viruses and bacteria, such as coronavirus, hepatitis-C, and others.

Anybody who wants more information about Foamstream and the town council’s commitment to sustainability can visit its website.