There has been a huge debate over the impact of Neonicotinoids, which are a class of systemic pesticides with a common mode of action that affects the central nervous system of insects, causing paralysis and death. Neonicotinoids are often applied as seed treatments which means coating the seeds before planting. They also generate billions of dollars for the agro-chemical companies that manufacture these chemicals and are available not only for agricultural applications but also can be found in a myriad of garden products available all over the world.

As the peer-reviewed, independent scientific evidence mounts from reputable scientists around the world that these chemicals are the cause of global honey bee decline, the industry still claims that they are not to blame. The industry also argues that without these systemic pesticides, agriculture will suffer, resulting in crop failure. Similar to the big banking conglomerates and other industries that are “too big to fail”, are neonicotinoids the next to join this lineup?

In this special series called “The Neonicotinoid View”, hosts June Stoyer and guest co-host, Tom Theobald will be joined by the President of the Professional Beekeeper’s Association, Walter Haefeker to discuss “The Value of Neonicotinoid Seed Treatment in the European Union”.  Stay tuned!