We the undersigned urge Yarra City Council to lead the way by using a steamer to control unwanted plant growth, instead of using chemical herbicides in parks, footpaths and gutters. It is widely known that herbicides have been linked to birth defects and other health problems, as well as posing problems environmentally. These links may not be scientifically proven facts at this stage, but these herbicides have not been proven to be safe. DDT, asbestos and cigarettes were all thought to be safe – and we now know that they were not. Taking a precautionary approach will provide peace of mind, and show the community that Yarra City Council CARES about the children, adults, pets, wildlife and plants; and wants to take steps to make the area a place that is safe for our children and animals, grandchildren and great-grandchildren. By making this change, Yarra City Council can: 1. promote its green ways and sustainable methodology – leading the way for other councils and organisations; 2. know that it is using something that is known to be safe; and 3. demonstrate its forward-thinking by recognising that an investment into the appropriate equipment to steam the unwanted vegetation is by far a more cost-efficient approach in the long term.