First Glyphosate-Resistant Weed Identified on UK Farm

Discovery of herbicide-resistant Italian ryegrass in Kent raises concerns over farming practices and environmental impacts.

Glyphosate-resistant Italian ryegrass has been confirmed on a farm in Kent, marking the first such case in the UK.
The herbicide glyphosate, widely used since the 1970s, is a cornerstone of regenerative agriculture due to its role in reducing soil disturbance.
Experts stress the need for farmers to adopt integrated weed management strategies to reduce reliance on glyphosate and delay resistance development.
The resistance is believed to have evolved locally through natural selection rather than being imported from other regions.
While unlikely to affect food prices broadly, the discovery could have significant financial and operational impacts on individual farmers and challenges for sustainable farming transitions.