Neonicotinoids
Michael Gove backs total ban on bee-killing pesticides
UK Environment minister says he is convinced by evidence that neonicotinoid pesticides are harmful to bees – though some farmers believe a ban is counterproductive.
Common pesticides putting bumblebees at risk of extinction, finds research
Bumblebees are less able to start colonies when exposed to a common neonicotinoid pesticide – which is putting them at risk of extinction, according to new research.
Neonicotinoids cause honeybee infertility, finds report
Two widely used neonicotinoid pesticides have been found to significantly reduce the fertility of male honeybees - and could provide vital evidence for the species population decline.
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Pesticides harmful to butterflies, finds research
British butterfly populations could be declining as a result of neonicotinoid pesticides used on some arable crops, according to research.
OPINION: The secret poisoning of Britain's hedgerows
Peter Melchett of the Soil Association argues that regulation of pesticides, especially neonicotinoids, needs to be more stringent in light of new research that suggests the chemicals are contaminating hedgerows
Behind the headlines: Banning pesticides
In December 2013, a two-year ban on pesticides – linked to a decline in honeybees and other pollinating insects – was introduced across Europe. The ban applies to a group of pesticides known as neonicotinoids and has been criticised by farmers and some environmentalists. A year into the ban, BBC Countryfile Magazine looked at the latest research and opinions…