A groundbreaking study revealing that some chemicals used in common weedkillers may be contributing to the problem of antibiotic resistance, could have global implications.
Canterbury University researchers have discovered that some chemicals used in herbicides are playing a role in making bacteria resistant to antibiotics.
"If you look at how different commercial chemical products are regulated, almost never is there an assessment on the sub-lethal effects of these products, particularly on micro-organisms," said Professor Jack Heinemann of the University of Canterbury.
The newly-released findings could have implications worldwide because of the rise of superbugs for which there are no effective drugs.
If left unregulated, superbugs could kill more than 10 million people every year by 2050, costing the global economy $10 trillion.
"We would be plunged back into the health of the 19th century - back into the Dark Ages, if you like. Ordinary illnesses we would not be able to treat [and] surgery would be compromised," said Doctor Alistair Humphrey, Canterbury Medical Officer of Health.
Around 700,000 tonnes of Glyphosate - one of the key ingredients in herbicide - continues to be used every year.
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