24/01/2023

Save the bees and farmers hearing at the European Parliament  

The official hearing of the European Citizens (ECI) Initiative Save the Bees and Farmers, which we are part of, take took place in the European Parliament on 24 January 2023 and was strong and balanced.  

Representatives of the ECI, two scientists from Wageningen University, an agroecology expert, and a large conventional farmer explained the sustainability and profitability of pesticides reductions. The farmer explained how he managed to reduce pesticides use by 80% in a couple of years. 

Nonetheless, the event was not really a debate, as most parties had pre-prepared statements. It was quite remarkable to hear Dr. Jeroen Candel present the opinion of over 700 scientists declaring that “there is not a single, serious scientist in the field who would argue that the pesticides regulation would pose a risk to European food security”. Strikingly, only minutes later the conservative representative of the European Peoples Party said exactly the opposite, claiming farmers have many problems, are in trouble and do not want to change their pesticide use.  

The ECI organisers produced a nice video with highlights. In case you miss the hearing, have a look! You can also read find the ECI’s press release and Jeroen Candel’s speech (representing over 700 scientists): The science is clear: we need an ambitious undelayed pesticides regulation! is also available. 

In the meantime, the last weeks was marked by successes on the way to ban pesticides using the existing laws! Read more in Pesticide Action Network Europe’s campaign stop derogations for banned pesticides, (proposed ban for 2 of the Toxic 12 pesticides).  

But, of course, effective restoration of biodiversity and protection of health, water, soil and environment needs much more.  It is crucial to provide active support in every EU Member State to make the new pesticide reduction regulation a success.  

@ECI save the bees and farmers

For more information on the ECI and/or organic’s approach to plant health and IFOAM Organics Europe’s work on this issue, please visit our website contact [email protected].  

IFOAM Organics Europe members can find more information on the member extranet and background materials in the arguments database on the member extranet (main messages, arguments/FAQs, visuals & videos). Contact [email protected] for access rights (issues). 

For information about what you can gain from being a member, read our membership page and contact [email protected]

The work of IFOAM Organics Europe on this topic is co-financed by the LIFE programme of the European Union, under the Climate, Infrastructure and Environment Executive Agency (CINEA). This page only reflects the views of the authors and its sole responsibility lies with IFOAM Organics Europe. The CINEA is not responsible for any use that may be made of the information provided. 

 
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