In
an effort to combat declining bee populations, the Environmental Protection
Agency (EPA) introduced new pesticide labels which prohibit the use of chemicals
known as neonicotinoids where bees are present.
Since
2006, researchers have noted a substantial decline in the world’s bee population. Because bees play a vital role in the
pollination of fruit and vegetable crops, recent governmental efforts have been
undertaken to protect bees.
In
a May 2013 joint report, EPA and the Department of Agriculture listed neonicotinoids,
parasitic mites, diseases and dramatic weather changes as potential causes for
the decline in the bee population. As a
result, on August 15, 2013, EPA announced its new pesticide labels directly
aimed at limiting the contact bees have with neonicotinoids.
For
more information and to read EPA’s press release regarding the new pesticide
labels, please see EPA's Website.
Written by
M. Sean High – Research Fellow
The
Agricultural Law Resource and Reference Center
August 19, 2013
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