One Planet News: Good news for bees...finally
The UK Government bans emergency use of deadly neonicotinoids
By Annette J Beveridge
Nature lovers have been waiting to see whether the UK Government would hold fast against the application for emergency use of neonicotinoids on sugar beet.
Just a single teaspoon of these pesticides could kill 1.25 billion honeybees. Even the tiniest trace of the chemical can have detrimental consequences on pollinators affecting cognitive function and the ability of the pollinator to navigate or forage.
The Government has just released a statement rejecting the application for using the pesticides which is the first time in five years that emergency use has not been approved.
There is clear evidence that Cruiser SB contains the neonicotinoid thiamethoxam which is extremely toxic to all pollinators.
Read more: Sleep, bees and circadian rhythms
Environment minister Emma Hardy said: “Britain is currently one of the most nature-depleted countries in the world.
“This government is committed to protecting bees from toxic neonicotinoid pesticides while working with our farmers to find new ways to protect crops and support a profitable farming sector.
“We recognise the threat that virus yellows can pose to sugar beet growers, and we will continue to support the industry to develop alternatives to neonicotinoids on sugar beet that are effective at high levels of yellows virus infection.”
The decision was made by assessing environmental, health and economic risks and benefits. Advice was given from Defra’s Chief Scientific Adviser, its economists, the Health and Safety Executive and the UK Expert Committee on Pesticides. The Farming Futures Fund will look at the potential for precision breeding in producing virus-resistant varieties of sugar beet.
