Neonics on seeds? Bad news for bees
- Details
- Published on Saturday, 22 August 2015 07:15
- Written by editor
... Tell EPA to stop ignoring this big threat to bees
Tell EPA to include neonic-treated seeds in its pollinator protection plan.
Speak up before the comment period closes on August 28.
Dear Paov,
Federal agencies are finally doing something to help protect pollinators — but that “something” is not nearly enough. While EPA’s latest plan narrowly addresses use of neonicotinoids (neonics) and other bee-harming pesticides, it entirely overlooks the most common application of these chemicals: seed coatings.
This National Honey Bee Day, speak up for these vital pollinators!
Tell EPA to step up » Coating seed with neonics is a common practice that leads to widespread pollinator exposure. And because neonics are systemic pesticides, they're taken up through the seed and spread throughout all parts of a plant — including pollen and nectar. Bad news for bees.
Each year, neonic-treated seeds are planted on about 200 million acres of farmland in the U.S. — including almost all of the corn and more than half of soybeans. Many other seeds, like canola, are also coated. Yet seed treatments aren’t technically considered a “pesticide use” by EPA, so the agency is letting it slide.
EPA’s proposed plan only addresses foliar applications (pesticides directly sprayed on a plant) when certain plants are in bloom, and when commercial honey bees are being used to pollinate these crops.
Bees need real help! » The science is clear: neonics are a key contributing factor to declining pollinator populations, and seed treatments are a primary route of exposure. Tell EPA to get in gear and take meaningful action on neonic-treated seeds.
Thank you for keeping this issue front and center!
Pesticide Action Network North AmericaOakland, CA | Minneapolis, MN
Phone: 510.788.9020 Email:This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. Web:www.panna.org
Facebook | Twitter | r2