What are neonicotinoids and why should they be avoided?

Honey bees are insanely important partners in our journey through life on planet earth. Without them, the food we consume every day would have to change dramatically. But one of the biggest culprits to the downfall of the honey bee has been neonicotinoids. So what are neonics? And why are they so bad for the bees? This infographic explains what you need to know. 

Why is colony collapse disorder so bad?

Look, 40% of bee colonies have collapsed in recent years. In fact, the number of bee colonies has dropped 90% since 1962. Worse still, bees have been losing more of their populations in the winter than they should. Much of this has to do with pesticide use, and one of the most prevalent is the neonics used as a pesticide on plants.

What are neonicotinoids?

Neonics are used to coat seeds, drench the soil, and are sprayed on crop foliage. They act as a “systemic pesticide” that is absorbed by all parts of the plant. These neonics are 5-10 thousand times more deadly than DDT insecticides to honey bees. 

What is the problem with neonicotinoids?

94% of these pesticides end up in the soil or water, and only 5% actually make it into the crops. Worse still 1% is released as toxic dust which floats about polluting nearby areas. 

How are neonicotinoids used?

They are used as seed treatments for cereals and sugar beets, as a soil treatment for potted plants, a treatment for turf, and as a foliar spray on apples, peas, and other crops. Even 70% of “bee-friendly” plants contain them. 

How do neonics affect bees?

These pesticides lead to eventual paralysis and death in bees. These effects change their foraging behaviors, communication, and breeding patterns, and destroy their memory. 

What are alternatives to these types of pesticides?

There are plenty of alternatives including beneficial insects, crop rotation, trap cropping, and use of natural or biologically friendly pesticides. 

Your Green Pal's infographic, "What are Neonicotinoids and Why Should They Be Avoided?" delves into the harmful impact of neonicotinoids on honey bees, essential for our ecosystem and food production. Neonicotinoids, more lethal than DDT, are systemic pesticides absorbed by all plant parts, with only 5% reaching the crops and 94% contaminating soil and water. 

They cause paralysis and death in bees, disrupting their foraging, communication, and memory. The alarming rate of colony collapse disorder, with a 90% drop in bee colonies since 1962, is partly attributed to these pesticides. Alternatives include beneficial insects, crop rotation, trap cropping, and eco-friendly pesticides. Awareness of neonicotinoids' dangers is crucial for protecting bee populations. 

This vital information is presented by Sun Leisure Instant Shelters, highlighting the need for sustainable pest control to safeguard our invaluable bee populations. Let’s act responsibly to ensure a healthy future for bees and our ecosystem!

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