Neonicotinoids and their substitutes in sustainable pest control

Abstract

The report includes a detailed analysis of the more recent research findings on the effects of neonicotinoids and their new substitutes and tools to reduce or eliminate future use of pesticides for the control of crop pests. This analysis is a contribution to a wider debate within the Commission and European Parliament as well as Member States on the environmental risk of pesticides. The evidence of the drastic increase in toxic load and the continued insect decline including pollinators as a result of new-generation pesticides argues for a more substantial reduction in the Commission’s 2030 target to reduce pesticide use and risk. We support the Commission’s measures to encourage an agricultural system that regards integrated pest management (IPM) based on biological rather than chemical pest control as a main tool. Substantial economic and cultural barriers exist to IPM and will require coordinated action ranging from research, training, information and advice, extension services, common monitoring, and other services, to financial incentives or regulations. Current pesticide risk indicators should include a more detailed assessment of toxic load, persistence in the environment, and toxicity to non-target organisms especially pollinators and natural enemies of pests to reduce threats to the environment, health, and biodiversity.