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Neonicotinoids: new research

The latest news about food, farming and the countryside. New research from Sweden suggests controversial neonicotinoid seed treatments do cause damage to wild bees.

Scientists in the UK and Sweden have published new research that claims controversial 'neonicotinoid' seed treatments do cause damage to wild bees. They also suggest bees are drawn to nectar from treated plants, in the same way as smokers are drawn to nicotine. Three of these chemical treatments have been banned for two years by the European Commission over concerns to pollinators. But the Crop Protection Association - representing companies that develop and sell the treated seeds - have campaigned for the ban to be lifted, saying the evidence doesn't support it. The CPA says the latest research still isn't enough to prove a link.
Presented by Charlotte Smith and produced by Sally Challoner.

13 minutes

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  • Thu 23 Apr 2015 05:45

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