The Belfast Tribune reports that a new assessment of
three neonicotinoid pesticides, whose use is restricted in the European Union .
. . has confirmed the danger” to bees.
Neonicitinoids have been widely used in Canada as a
seed treatment to prevent crop damage by insects. Ontario has implemented
controls that require farmers to prove their crops face an assault by insects.
The assessment by the European Food Safety Authority
looked at their impact on wild solitary bees and bumblebees as well as
honeybees.
Jose Tarazona, head of EFSA’s pesticides unit, said “there
is variability in the conclusions, due to factors such as the bee species, the
intended use of the pesticide and the route of exposure.
“Some low risks have been identified, but overall the
risk to the three types of bees we have assessed is confirmed.”
It’s not clear what his low-risk assessment means for
North American farmers.
