桃子直播

Weed control

Weed Control Policy 

桃子直播 is changing how we manage weeds across the city. In line with our response to the Climate Emergency (2019) and Nature Emergency (2023), we are taking a phased approach to reduce the use of glyphosate-based herbicides, and introduce more sustainable weed control methods.  

Parks and Openspaces 

From April 2024, the Council's Neighbourhood Environment Service ceased using glyphosate in most Council-maintained green spaces, including

  • parks and open spaces 
  • school grounds 
  • housing areas 
  • fence lines and path edges 

This means no chemical weed treatment is being applied in these areas. All weed removal is now carried out by manual or mechanical methods.

Streets, Roads and Hard Surfaces 

We are also reducing glyphosate use on roads, pavements and other hardstanding areas, with the aim of phasing it out. 

During 2025, some limited, one-off glyphosate treatments may still be used in difficult-to-access areas, such as

  • cobblestone streets 
  • high-parking areas 
  • controlled parking zones (e.g. City Centre, New Town, Stockbridge) 

These applications are carried out using controlled droplet technology, and are followed up with manual scraping and hand removal. 

A new citywide mechanical sweeping programme is being introduced to clear soil and detritus, which reduces the conditions that allow weeds to grow. 

Please note: This work is more labour-intensive and may not be completed in one visit. 

Non native species

Non native plant species are those that have been brought in to the country by humans. There are many non native species in Scotland. A small number of these cause damage to

  • the environment
  • the economy
  • our health
  • the way we live. 

These are called invasive non native species. The Scottish Government website provides details of non native species.

Invasive weed control on Council owned land

The Council will tackle the following invasive non-native species on Council owned land:

Glyphosate is still used, where necessary, for the control of invasive non-native species. To report an invasive or non native species please email

parks@edinburgh.gov.uk.

Weed Control and Biodiversity 

It’s important to remember that weeds are plants, and many support urban biodiversity. Weeds can

  • provide food and shelter for insects, birds, and pollinators 
  • improve soil health and green our cityscape 

As part of our wider biodiversity and climate commitments, we’re moving towards a more sustainable and natural approach to green space management.  

If a group of residents agrees to “self-weed” their street, the Council can exclude that area from chemical treatment. 

We can support local initiatives by

  • lending basic equipment 
  • arranging uplift of bagged green waste 
  • providing advice and coordination 

To request support for self-weeding or to opt out of spraying: 
Email: waste@edinburgh.gov.uk