Dr Bill Parker, Director of Research, Agriculture and Horticulture Development Board (AHDB), said:
“While this decision is not unexpected given the mounting weight of scientific evidence of the effects of neonics on pollinators, it is nonetheless a serious issue for the agricultural industry as it further restricts the crop protection toolbox that farmers and growers have available to them for controlling key pests.
“Although alternatives do exist, the consequence of this decision is likely to be a greater use of insecticides applied as foliar sprays (spray applied to leaves)….
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Prof Dave Goulson, Professor of Biology (Evolution, Behaviour and Environment), University of Sussex, said:
“Given the ongoing evidence of catastrophic insect decline … this decision should be welcome. There is abundant evidence from lab and field studies that neonicotinoids are harmful to bees…. The EU decision is a logical one….
“However, if these neonicotinoids are simply replaced by other similar compounds such as sulfoxaflor, cyantraniliprole and flupyradifurone (all new systemic insecticides), then we will simply be going round in circles. What is needed is a move towards truly sustainable farming methods that minimise pesticide use, encourage natural enemies of crop pests, and support biodiversity and healthy soils.
Read full, original post: expert reaction to EU ban on outdoor use of three neonicotinoid pesticides
