What risk is associated with the use of neonicotinoids?

The use of neonicotinoids is primarily associated with the risk of harm to pollinators, particularly bees. Neonicotinoids are systemic insecticides that can be absorbed by plants and made available in pollen and nectar. When bees forage on treated plants, they can ingest these chemicals, leading to various health issues, including impaired learning, navigation problems, and increased susceptibility to disease.

Research has shown that exposure to neonicotinoids can have sub-lethal effects on bee populations, potentially disrupting their life cycles and contributing to colony decline. This link between neonicotinoids and bee health has raised significant concerns among scientists, policymakers, and environmental advocates, leading to regulatory actions in many regions to limit their use.

Understanding this risk is critical for agricultural practices, biodiversity conservation, and the overall health of ecosystems that rely on pollinators for reproduction and food production. The concern about the impact on pollinators highlights the need for careful consideration in the use of neonicotinoids in pest management strategies.