Neonicotinoid pesticides have been known for some time to pose a threat to bees and other pollinators. In fact, last year the European Commission imposed a two-year moratorium banning them on plants that attract bees. But now, research suggests they are a danger to everything from lizards to shellfish.
Despite the fact that neonicotinoids make up nearly one-third of all insecticides, the International Union for Conservation of Nature has called for their global phase-out. Recommendations are based on a review of 800 studies, which suggest that their current use is unsustainable.
In the past, researchers have focused on the immediate effects of neonicotinoids. But now, experts believe that long-term environmental buildup may be a serious problem. Levels of neonicotinoids in water routinely exceed legal limits in both Europe and North America and are damaging to coastal species like crabs and shellfish.
The pesticide is also wreaking havoc in the soil, harming everything from microorganisms to lizards, because the insects they feed on are dying. Even in soil with non-lethal levels of neonicotinoids, toxicity can impair worms, making it difficult for them to tunnel and feed. Scientists fear exposure could impact the nutrient recycling process.
Neonicotinoids are in the midst of a two-year moratorium in Europe. But they tend to break down slowly, with a half-life of up to three years in soil. So the ban may be too brief to give researchers a complete picture.
Given their widespread use, we need to fast-track targeted neonicotinoids studies and appropriate regulation. There is simply too much of the natural world at stake.
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Web Links
Neonicotinoid pesticides are bad news for everything
Systemic pesticides pose global threat to biodiversity and ecosystem services
Photo, posted April 1, 2013, courtesy of The Greens EFA (greensefa) via Flickr.
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Earth Wise is a production of WAMC Northeast Public Radio, with script contribution from the Cary Institute of Ecosystem Studies.