News from the Earth

European Council deems 10% loss of bee colonies acceptable!

The maximum allowable reduction in bee colonies due to pesticide use, increases from 7% to 10%. On June 28, European agriculture ministers agreed on the need to set a specific target to protect honey bees from pesticides. A target that would set the maximum reduction in colony size across the European Union at 10%. The threshold supported by the EU ministers will now be considered by the European Food Safety Authority (Efsa) to finalize the guidance document. Many Member States questioned the significant reduction in the use of pesticides, particularly neonicotinoids, which are considered toxic to honeybees and other important pollinators.  A policy in contrast with the Green Deal!This is stated by the Pesticide action network Europe (Pan), which explains how experts from member states already agreed in 2013 on a maximum 7% reduction in honey bee colony size due to pesticides. The so-called guidance document for bees was never approved by EU agriculture ministers because they feared the approach would remove too many pesticides from the market. Allowing a 10% reduction in honey bee colony size means we are accepting a major impact of pesticide use on insects. This will keep pesticides on the market that are a major driver of pollinator decline in Europe. Under EU law, pesticides can only be used in agriculture if a comprehensive risk assessment demonstrates that such use will not harm human or animal health or result in unacceptable levels of environmental damage. (source: lifegate.it) We can all help the bees. Plant flowers in our gardens and terraces, eat local organic vegan food, and support organic farmers and beekeepers.  Try our reusable beeswax food wrap to store food or bring it with you to office or for outdoor activities. Say Yes to life, Earth Thanks! 🌿