Herbicide Trials
Synopsis
In 1983, fifteen Cape Breton, Nova Scotia, landowners went to court to stop the spraying of herbicides by the local subsidiary of a Swedish multinational on forests adjacent to their properties. They found that the testimony of scientists and the support of public opinion, both here and abroad, were not enough to win their case. The film shows their ordeal and the landmark Sydney trial. Concerns raised included potential conflict-of-interest situations where a government must protect citizens' health while supporting certain kinds of industry; the relative value of the political and judicial processes in mediating social problems; and the need for a public forum for debating environmental issues. The film contains outstanding footage from chemical-industry films of the 1950s and recent material about Vietnam veterans affected by Agent Orange.
Key Information & Fast Facts
- Director
- Neal Livingston
- Original Title
- Herbicide Trials
- Country of Origin
- Canada
- Release Date
- 01/06/1984
- Spoken Languages
- English
- Runtime
- 49m
- Production Studios
- ONF | NFB
Creative Leadership & Key Crew
Neal Livingston
Neal Livingston
Kent Martin
Department Leadership Roster
Kent Martin
Producer
Neal Livingston
Editor
Neal Livingston
Director
Production Stills & Gallery
Official cinematic photography and background stills for Herbicide Trials.
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Frequently Asked Questions About Herbicide Trials
Quick factual answers about cast, synopsis, director, box office, and release information.
What is Herbicide Trials about?
In 1983, fifteen Cape Breton, Nova Scotia, landowners went to court to stop the spraying of herbicides by the local subsidiary of a Swedish multinational on forests adjacent to their properties. They found that the testimony of scientists and the support of public opinion, both here and abroad, were not enough to win their case. The film shows their ordeal and the landmark Sydney trial. Concerns raised included potential conflict-of-interest situations where a government must protect citizens' health while supporting certain kinds of industry; the relative value of the political and judicial processes in mediating social problems; and the need for a public forum for debating environmental issues. The film contains outstanding footage from chemical-industry films of the 1950s and recent material about Vietnam veterans affected by Agent Orange.
Who directed Herbicide Trials?
Herbicide Trials was directed by Neal Livingston.
Who stars in Herbicide Trials?
The principal cast of Herbicide Trials includes Not specified.
When was Herbicide Trials released and how long is it?
Herbicide Trials was released in 1984 with a total runtime of 49m.