EU postpones the vote on neonicotinoids

EU countries have postponed the vote on insecticides containing the active substances – clothianidin, thiamethoxam and imidacloprid, because they are considered toxic to bees. The discussion on stricter rules for the use of the so-called neonicotinoids will continue next year as well, stated the spokesperson of the European Commission on 13.12.2017 (Wednesday) in Brussels. The Member States will wait for the new assessment of the European Food Safety Authority (EFSA) in order to take a final decision. The new vote is scheduled for February 2018.

The European Commission has proposed a ban on the use of three insecticides that contain the active substances – clothianidin, thiamethoxam and imidacloprid. Environmentalists, for their part, continue to demand a complete ban on insecticides from the neonicotinoid group, because they believe that even low doses can harm bees.

As early as December 2013 the use of neonicotinoids was restricted throughout the European Union. For example, the use of the three insecticides on oilseed rape and in the cultivation of cherries, apples or cucumbers is not permitted. The restriction has specific legal loopholes and many of the cultivated plants treated with neonicotinoids have special authorisations. For example, neonicotinoids in the EU may be used on oats or wheat when the crops are sown between January and June. Even when they are grown in greenhouses, the chemicals are also permitted.

More on the topic:

The official EU opinion on neonicotinoids is expected in November

Only science can impartially resolve the conflict between beekeepers and farmers, but the final word will rest with the European Union! Part I

Only science can impartially resolve the conflict between beekeepers and farmers, but the final word will rest with the European Union! Part II