Intro by John Donovan: We wondered who was killing off all the bees. Now we know: “First developed by Shell Oil in the 1980s to replace the highly toxic organophosphorus insecticides, neonicotinoids promised an environmentally friendlier solution that was both safer for humans, and more potent against pests. Synthetic derivatives of nicotine, neonicotinoids are designed to destroy the nervous systems of crop pests, but the chemicals have been shown to be just as lethal to beneficial wildlife, such as honeybees and songbirds.” (Staatsvijand no 1 translation: Public Enemy No 1.)
Prominent Beekeepers Blame Pesticides for Bee Decline
By Conan Milner Epoch Times Staff 2 April 2013
When it comes to a healthy, thriving food supply, bees are essential. Busy bees pollinate more than a quarter of all plants consumed in the United States, and at least 130 different American crops.
But bee colonies are disappearing fast, and many blame commercial agriculture’s most popular pesticides. A coalition of environmental groups and prominent beekeepers are suing federal regulators to stop the spread of bee-toxic chemicals.
The Rise of Neonicotinoids
First developed by Shell Oil in the 1980s to replace the highly toxic organophosphorus insecticides, neonicotinoids promised an environmentally friendlier solution that was both safer for humans, and more potent against pests.
Synthetic derivatives of nicotine, neonicotinoids are designed to destroy the nervous systems of crop pests, but the chemicals have been shown to be just as lethal to beneficial wildlife, such as honeybees and songbirds.
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