Protests Erupt as France Considers Easing Pesticide Ban

French lawmakers are debating a rollback on a ban of a key pesticide and loosening farm regulations, sparking protests from farmers and concerns from environmental groups. Farmers blocked roads and rallied in Paris against proposed changes that would reauthorize acetampirid, a neonicotinoid pesticide linked to bee deaths and potential harm to fetal and child development.

France aimed to halve pesticide use but has not met its target; nearly 25% of water sources exceed legal pesticide residue limits, affecting 17 million people. While some countries strengthen pesticide restrictions, inconsistent regulations across Europe leave ecosystems and communities at risk.

Critics argue that increasing commodity prices, not relaxing environmental rules, should address farmers’ challenges, emphasizing the need to protect pollinators and public health.

28-05-2025