A pesticide industry legal challenge to current EU restrictions on neonicotinoid pesticides is taking place Tuesday and Wednesday (15-16 February).Friends of the Earth says there is growing scientific evidence of the threat these chemicals pose to bees and other wildlife.
The three neonicotinoid pesticides were banned on flowering crops in December 2013 [2] after European Food Safety Authority scientists concluded they posed a ”high acute risk” to honey bees when used on crops attractive to them.
Since then the evidence that they harm bees, and other wildlife such as butterflies, has continued to stack up.
The legal challenge is taking place at the European Court of Justice in Luxembourg.
Friends of the Earth nature campaigner Paul de Zylva said:
“There is growing scientific evidence of the risk these chemicals pose to our bees and other wildlife.
“Plenty of new research from independent studies has come out since the ban was introduced, adding to the weight of evidence that the widespread use of neonicotinoid pesticides is a significant factor in bee decline.
“The EU restrictions on these chemicals should not only remain, they should also be extended to all crops and made permanent.
“Bees are crucial for pollinating our crops – the pesticide and farming industry must do far more to protect them, including helping farmers to find safe and effective alternatives to these harmful chemicals.”
Last week the NFU applied for emergency permission to use neonicotinoid pesticides on a proportion of the English oilseed rape crop. – info@foe.co.uk<info@foe.co.uk>
