US President Donald Trump has announced his decision to increase the production of glyphosate, a herbicide widely used in weed control globally, including in Finland. He has tasked the Secretary of Agriculture with implementing the necessary measures to enhance glyphosate production, stating its importance for national food security. The herbicide has been at the center of debate due to its potential health risks, following the World Health Organization's (WHO) classification of it as probably carcinogenic in 2015. However, subsequent assessments have suggested that food consumption does not pose a significant cancer risk, while concerns about its negative effects on pollinators persist.

The use of glyphosate has sparked controversies that have resulted in legal battles costing billions of dollars. Many products containing glyphosate are marketed under various brand names, with Roundup being one of the most recognized. The herbicide’s relationship with environmental impacts, particularly on pollinator species like bees, has been highlighted in recent research. A Finnish doctoral study conducted last year revealed that glyphosate can impair bumblebee activity and weaken their immune systems, raising concerns about its long-term effects on biodiversity and ecosystem health.

Despite the ongoing debates regarding glyphosate's safety, Trump’s administration is moving forward with its increased production, reflecting a prioritization of agricultural production and food security over environmental and health concerns voiced by various advocacy groups. This decision may lead to intensified scrutiny and opposition from environmentalists, who warn of the potential consequences of expanded glyphosate use on both human health and the environment.