Phthalates which mimic oestrogen affect the development of male reproductive organs and are believed to be responsible for falling sperm counts. Norsk Hydro have made a bid to build two large gas fired powered stations on the west coast of Norway. It also owns a third of the company Naturkraft, who are also bidding for the contract. The development is being opposed by the broadest environmental opposition in Norwegian history. Over 3000 people have pledged to take direct action if the power stations go ahead.
Artificial fertilisers are energy intensive to produce.
They can poison worms and soil life. This means that the soil loses biological activity and is less able to support plant growth, which in turn forces the farmer to use more fertiliser to maintain good yields. Soil subject to artificial fertiliser is prone to drying out and becoming waterlogged in rain. Fertilisers also encourage the growth of weeds requiring the use of herbicides. Artificial fertilisers also pollute drinking water with nitrates.