Breakfast Briefing: Ecosystem Services, Agriculture and Neonicotinoids

In assessing the effects of neonicotinoids on non-target organisms, EASAC’s report comes to four key conclusions:

1. There is an increasing body of evidence that the widespread prophylactic use of neonicotinoids has severe negative effects on non-target organisms that provide ecosystem services including pollination and natural pest control.

2. There is clear scientific evidence for sub-lethal effects of very low levels of neonicotinoids over extended periods on non-target organisms, which should be addressed in EU approval procedures.

3. Current practice of prophylactic usage of neonicotinoids is inconsistent with the basic principles of integrated pest management, as expressed in the EU’s Sustainable Pesticides Directive.

4. Widespread use of neonicotinoids (as well as other pesticides) constrains the potential for restoring biodiversity in farmland.

To view the full report, please click here.

International Media Coverage

Since the report was launched in Brussels on April 13 there has been considerable coverage from the international media, please click here for details.

This briefing is invite only, if you have any questions or queries please do not hesitate to contact Paul Lynam, Policy and International Relations Manager at: p.lynam@ria.ie