In message , "Nightjar "@?.?.invalid> writes
snip
> Chlorate wasn't banned because it was harmful to the 'environment'. >
>It is classed as harmful to aquatic life, with long lasting effects
>(besides being harmful if ingested and as an oxidising agent).
>
>> It
>> was banned because its a fine explosive.
>
>That was dealt with fairly early on in the IRA campaign by the use of
>additives and the EU Directive that banned it is only aimed at removing
>plant protection products that present hazards to human life or the
>environment, which seems to cover just about every effective weed
>killer, fumigant and pesticide.
Umm.. I think the *additives* also refer to high *N* content agricultural fertilisers (Ammonium Nitrate) available by the ton in NI.
>