A majority of EU states have backed a proposal to restrict the use of pesticides linked to bee deaths in scientific studies. There is great concern across Europe about the collapse of bee populations. Neonicotinoid chemicals in pesticides are believed to harm bees and the European Commission says they should be restricted to crops not attractive to bees and other pollinators. But many farmers and crop experts argue that there is insufficient data. The Commission now has the go-ahead to impose a two-year restriction on neonicotinoids. Wild species such as honey bees are said by researchers to be responsible for pollinating around one-third of the world’s crop production. Greenpeace EU agriculture policy director Marco Contiero said Monday’s vote “makes it crystal clear that there is overwhelming scientific, political and public support for a ban. “Those countries opposing a ban have failed.” An EU vote last month was inconclusive, so the Commission proposal went to an appeals committee on Monday. Some restrictions are already in place for neonicotinoids in France, Germany, Italy and Slovenia. The three neonicotinoids are clothianidin, imidacloprid and thiametoxam. The EU moratorium would not apply to crops non-attractive to bees, or to winter cereals. It would prohibit the sale and use of seeds treated with neonicotinoid pesticides. The deadline for implementation would be 1 July this year, not affecting the forthcoming sowing season for maize. There would be a ban on the sale of neonicotinoids to amateur growers.
