‘Scandalous, irrational and irresponsible’: French beekeepers’ fury at lifting of pesticides ban

French parliament has approved reauthorization of two neonicotinoid pesticides to combat a crop-destroying disease. But beekeepers say it's a disastrous move—scientists have documented that these chemicals poison bees. One beekeeper in the Paris region expressed the depth of concern: bee populations are already weakened by climate change, parasites, and habitat loss, and now face this additional threat. The Guardian reports that beekeepers warn the decision will kill bees and reduce harvests, piling pressure on an already fragile population.

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