‘Scandalous, irrational and irresponsible’: French beekeepers’ fury at lifting of pesticides ban
Summary
France’s parliament approved a law allowing the use of two pesticides banned in the country because they harm bees. Beekeepers and environmental groups strongly oppose the law, saying it risks bee populations and biodiversity. Farmers support the law, arguing it helps protect crops threatened by pests.Key Facts
- France passed a law permitting the use of pesticides acetamiprid and flupyradifurone under certain conditions.
- These pesticides were banned in France but allowed in the EU due to their harmful effects on bees.
- Beekeepers warn the pesticides cause high bee deaths and reduce honey harvests.
- The law aims to fight aphid diseases that damage crops like sugar beet, apples, hazelnuts, and cherries.
- France’s environment minister resigned in protest but later stayed after discussions with President Macron.
- The largest French farmers’ union supported the law, calling it a victory for farmers.
- Honey production in France has fallen by half since the mid-1990s, partly due to neonicotinoid pesticides.
- Environmental groups say the law ignores scientific evidence and harms the environment.
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