Field trials conducted by EPA (the US Environmental Protection Agency) show that a common neonicotinoid insecticide called imidacloprid leads to the decline of bee populations. The pesticides are currently banned in most parts of the European Union. However, the UK permits the use of the pesticides in selected farms. The European Food Safety Authority has recently commenced a review that could lead to the ending of this ban in relation to three neonicotinoids – thiamethoxam, clothianidin and imidacloprid. The perceived affect on bees could be central to the decision of the review. Bayer Crop Science is a major producer of these pesticides.
Field trials conducted by the US Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) show that a common neonicotinoid insecticide called imidacloprid leads to the decline of bee populations. The pesticides are currently banned in most parts of the European Union. However, the UK permits the use of the pesticides in selected farms. The European Food Safety Authority has recently commenced a review that could lead to the ending of this ban in relation to three neonicotinoids – thiamethoxam, clothianidin and imidacloprid. The perceived affect on bees could be central to the decision of the review. Bayer Crop Science is a major producer of these pesticides.