The future of food safety and environmental protection is in the hands of EU institutions and national ministries. This message was reinforced today thanks to a demonstration that took place from Square Orban in front of the offices of CropLife Europe, the polluter to whom the "bill"—the estimated cost required to cover the damage caused by pesticide use to food security, biodiversity, and human health- was presented. The pesticide lobby’s massive investment —over 40 million euros—is a calculated effort to maintain an agricultural model that prioritises short-term profits, influences and shapes policies, obstructs regulatory reforms and undermines scientific evidence, pointing to pesticide dependency's environmental and health risks. The persistence of this outdated system is not just an economic choice but a political strategy to secure dominance in the agricultural sector, despite the growing urgency for ecological transition. (Reference: https://lebasic.com/v2/content/uploads/2021/11/Pesticides_a_model_thats_costing_us_dearly_EN-Synthesis.pdf ). Dangers of pesticides transcend political affiliations According to Martin Dermine , a representative from  PAN Europe , the dangers of pesticides transcend political affiliations, age, and gender. “Pesticides’ damage to health and the environment should not be a matter of right or left, woman or man, young or old – they affect us all” - Dermine stated. Scientific research has long established the links between pesticide exposure and severe health conditions, meanwhile, pesticides that have been banned in the EU due to their hazardous nature - endocrine disruptors, carcinogens, and bee-toxic chemicals - continue to be produced and exported to countries with weaker regulations.   “We now have countless proofs that CropLife Europe (CropLifeEU) knew well in advance how harmful their products are,” Dermine emphasised. “They knew that neonicotinoids were devastating honey bee colonies. They knew that glyphosate-based herbicides were making people sick. And they know that pesticides contribute to neurodegenerative diseases among farmers.” Children’s Rights Violated with Impunity The toxic footprint of pesticides extends beyond farmers and the environment, threatening the rights and well-being of children across Europe. Suzanne Astic from the  Child Rights International Network (CRIN) underscored the gravity of the issue: “Every day, children are contaminated with hazardous pesticides. Because they are particularly vulnerable to exposure, this pollution can have irreversible effects on their health.” Such exposure directly violates children’s fundamental rights - to life, survival, health, and safe play - rights that are recognised by both the United Nations and the European Union. “The EU must step up,” Suzanne Astic urged. “We need stronger rules restricting pesticide use, rigorous enforcement by Member States, and a firm commitment to the ‘polluter pays’ principle. Today, we have a message for CropLife and its members: stop poisoning children and their families. ” Pollinators: the silent victims of pesticide pollution A dire warning also comes from our beekeeping community , which has long witnessed the devastating effects of pesticides on pollinators. Noa Simon Delso, our Scientific Director and Project Manager,   underlined the crucial role of bees in food security, sustainability, and biodiversity. “Bees and other pollinators serve as bioindicator of environmental quality, bringing us alarming news,” Noa said. “It took twenty-five years  to remove dangerous pesticides from the market, by which time we had already triggered an insectaggedon  (mass decline in insect populations) that threatens our food production and nature itself.” From the 1990s, beekeepers and scientists have sounded the alarm, yet some countries continue to authorise banned pesticides. The result? Beekeepers have suffered economic losses, some even forced to abandon their production, while the polluter-pays principle remains largely unimplemented. Pollinator Action Week ends on Sunday, March 30, after ten days of events and initiatives dedicated to protecting health and biodiversity. However, the commitment of BeeLife and the NGOs working to raise awareness among citizens and authorities about the responsible use of pesticides is an ongoing mission, pursued every single day.

The battle against harmful pesticides is reaching a critical juncture as citizens, environmental NGOs, and scientists intensify their call for greater regulation and corporate accountability. At the heart of the debate is the undeniable impact of pesticides on human health, biodiversity and environmental and economic sustainability. With mounting scientific evidence and growing public awareness, pressure is rising on the European Union to enforce stricter regulations and ensure those responsible for pesticide pollution are held accountable. On March 25, experts, NGOs, and Members of the European Parliament (MEPs) gathered for an Informal Breakfast Briefing  to discuss the status quo and future of pesticide risks and regulation in the EU. The event highlighted serious gaps in implementing Directive 2009/128/EC and Regulation 1107/2009, key frameworks designed to protect public health, biodiversity, and environmental safety. Still, it was reminded that these two pieces of legislation  exist to ensure the rights of European citizens  to enjoy health and safety, clean air and water, biodiversity, and environmental quality.   Why is this discussion crucial? Multiple reports and studies have raised concerns about the current approval and monitoring system for pesticides: Lack of transparency and independence  in the authorisation process (historical issues with EFSA). Failure to apply the precautionary principle  allows harmful pesticides to remain on the market. Inadequate post-market monitoring  (phytopharmaceutical vigilance). Insufficient protection  for vulnerable groups and ecosystems. Illegal emergency authorisations  granted by Member States The EU countries must do more Despite failing to pass the new Sustainable Use of Pesticides Regulation (SUR)  in 2024, the EU’s goal to reduce pesticide use and risk by 2030 remains. Compliance with existing laws is critical: Integrated Pest Management (IPM) is legally required   (Directive 2009/128/EC ), must be enforced and farmers not implementing it should not have access to public CAP money. Emergency authorisations must follow  EU law  and court rulings . Member States must strengthen oversight and enforcement. What citizens and NGOs are demanding At the briefing, organisations urged the European Parliament to: Use their power to question the Commission on the enforcement of pesticide laws. Follow up on the PEST Committee’s recommendations . Ensure the EU upholds the rule of law on pesticide regulation. Consider legal action against non-compliance with existing legislation.

In a landmark decision on March 18, 2025, the Cluj Court of Appeal issued a ruling that suspends the controversial temporary authorizations for neonicotinoid-based plant protection products in Romania. The decision came after a legal challenge by ROMAPIS  - BeeLife member in Romania - dedicated to advocating for Romania's beekeepers, in partnership with Eco Ruralis, a small farmers’ association. The suit was filed against the Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Development (MARD) following the issuance of derogations in December 2024, which temporarily allowed the use of two banned neonicotinoids -Imidacloprid and Thiamethoxam - in the country. These neonicotinoids  have been banned across the European Union due to their detrimental effects on pollinators and their link to widespread bee population declines. The court decision , which carries immediate and executory effects, effectively halts the use and marketing of the pesticides in question. For agroecology and beekeeping across Romania, this marks a “critical victory” after over a decade of continuous derogations that have severely impacted the nation's beekeeping industry, placing countless bees at risk of poisoning and disrupting the balance of the ecosystem. The derogations , which have consistently allowed the use of illegal toxic substances for the past 12 years in Romania, have long been a source of frustration and concern for environmentalists, beekeepers, and agricultural reform advocates. Despite repeated warnings and even a ruling from the CJEU declaring such derogations illegal, the Ministry of Agriculture continued this practice, exploiting loopholes in EU pesticide regulations. This recent success, therefore, is not a reaction to a newfound realization but rather a long-awaited relief after years of persistent advocacy. "We hope this legal action will give Romanian beekeepers the certainty they need, knowing that our beekeeping sector will be finally protected from the harmful effects of these pesticides," said Constantin Dobrescu, Vice-President and board member of ROMAPIS, "Romania must follow now the example of other European countries that prioritize agro-ecological solutions rather than toxic pesticides." The case has been a pivotal moment for environmental and agricultural policy in Romania . With the suspension of these derogations, Romania now stands at a crossroads: an opportunity to embrace a future where beekeeping and agriculture can coexist without relying on harmful chemicals. It is a moment for both the government and the agricultural community to reconsider their approach to pest control and prioritize long-term ecological health.

Download the press release United Nations Biodiversity Conference of Parties 16 (COP 16 ), was held in Rome from February 25 to 27 and marked a significant step forward in international environmental cooperation . After three days of negotiations, a collective strategy was established with a bold goal: a new Resource Mobilization Strategy aimed at securing $200 billion annually by 2030 from all sources for biodiversity initiatives and reducing harmful incentives by at least $500 billion per year by 2030. This decision is a positive move, reflecting the growing global commitment to protecting biodiversity through stronger environmental policies in contrast with some back steps on European biodiversity protection. One troubling example  came from the French Senate's vote to reintroduce acetamiprid, a neonicotinoid pesticide that is known to be harmful to pollinators. Acetamiprid was banned in France in 2020 together with the other neonicotinoid insecticides due to their toxicity to bees and the environment. However, the French government supported acetamiprid’s return, which expedited the parliamentary process to push the law through. Although a specific vote date has not yet been set, it is expected to occur in March 2025 .  The scientific community has long raised concerns about the devastating impact of neonicotinoids on pollinators; acetamiprid is no exception . Beyond its harm to pollinators, this pesticide also poses significant risks to human health, as evidenced by European Union reports on pesticide residues in food , which find residues of acetamiprid in foodstuffs, and the  studies showing harm to mammals . “This law proposal is a fundamental step backwards and a threat to biodiversity ” - says Noa Simon, Scientific Director & Project Manager in BeeLife who contributed to studying the effects of neonicotinoids in the environment. “Especially when we think of the aerial pulverisation used on agricultural plots.  In addition,  acetamiprid is not the most efficient insecticide against insects but it is potentially harmful to people”.  Despite these warnings, the powerful influence   of agrochemical companies  on policymakers and farmers has led to a troubling continuation of approvals for harmful substances, putting environment and public health at risk, as our French members pointed out.   Another challenge is the unfair competition  created by products grown in countries with lower production costs, but treated with pesticides that do not meet European regulatory standards.While COP 16 is the opportunity for countries to address global biodiversity challenges, concrete decisions regarding resource mobilisation and stronger monitoring mechanisms, the French law proposal, called Duplomb´s law , highlights a broader, concerning trend: a shift backwards in the fight to protect our environment and health, driven by short-term economic interests  rather than long-term ecological and societal health. This issue is not exclusive to France . In many countries, corporate and intensivist farming unions’ lobbying and resistance to adopting alternative solutions delay decisive actions needed to safeguard biodiversity and public health. The Duplomb law proposal in France or the abuse of the emergency authorisation of banned pesticides  are stark examples of  how local policies can hinder global progress , waste resources, jeopardise public health, and weaken efforts to protect the planet and food security. Citizens must stay informed and engaged in these issues .Understanding the complexities of these decisions can help Europeans, and people around the world, recognise the importance of supporting policies that prioritise the health of our environment and future generations. The struggle between environmental advocates, scientific experts, and corporate interests underscores the need for a straightforward, science-based approach  to policy  that favors the planet's and its people's well-being over short-term economic gains. It is hoped that decision-makers in Europe will make use of resources such as COP16 or return with an improved version of the Sustainable Use of Pesticides Directive . More than one million people have called for a reduction in pesticide exposure to both citizens and the environment. The situation will continue to be monitored and addressed, and it is essential to stay vigilant, demanding decisions that uphold our shared responsibility for both the environment and human health. Resources : https://www.cbd.int/article/reconvene-cop16-rome-2024 https://www.pollinis.org/enquete/le-scopaff-contre-les-abeilles-histoire-dun-scandale-environnemental-europeen/des-neonicotinoides-aux-tests-abeilles/ https://efsa.onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/full/10.2903/j.efsa.2022.7031 https://efsa.onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/full/10.2903/j.efsa.2024.8759 https://link.springer.com/article/10.1007/s10311-021-01353-1 https://www.mdpi.com/2305-6304/11/7/598 Download the full Honey Market Research and references here

We are excited to announce that BeeLife has officially joined Bluesky , and we are eager to expand our audience and connect with more like-minded individuals who are passionate about environmental sustainability.  Whether it's climate change, biodiversity, or sustainable development, we believe that together, we can raise awareness and drive meaningful change. Our presence on Bluesky is more than just an opportunity to share updates, Bluesky is the perfect platform for us to engage with a community that shares our values, offering a space for constant dialogue on important environmental issues .  It’s a chance to be part of a dynamic network where we can learn from one another, collaborate, and keep the conversation going. It’s a platform where information flows freely, and our commitment to the environment can reach an ever-growing, attentive audience. As we continue to grow and evolve, we invite you to join us in this journey. Stay tuned for exciting updates, insightful discussions, and a space where every voice counts in making a difference. Together, we can make an impact!  Follow us on Bluesky and become part of the movement!

Beelife is pleased to take part in a collective effort with other 85 organizations , including environmental, health, and human rights groups, farm worker unions, and farmer organisations, in creating the " Roadmap for Pesticide Phase-Out " promoted by Pesticide Action Network Europe  (PAN Europe) addressed to EU policymakers.  Pesticides harm biodiversity, pollute our environment, and jeopardise the health of all Europeans. Scientists, farmers and over one million citizens who supported the ECI Save Bees and Farmers , are still awaiting action from the Commission regarding the Pesticide phase-out.  This Roadmap is a statement that outlines  essential demands  and actionable steps  to reduce pesticide use and risk across Europe , prioritising human health, environmental protection and a fair future for farmers. A call for the European Commission to integrate these demands into the upcoming EU Vision for Agriculture and Food , and a reminder of the Farm to Fork Strategy  and post-2020 Global Biodiversity targets . Fact & Figures The Roadmap quote: “ Biodiversity is collapsing at an unprecedented rate. Europe has seen a 60% decline in farmland bird populations  and at least 70% decline in insect populations , including pollinating insects and pest predators, while over 75% of the insect biomass  disappeared from protected areas in 27 years. Pesticides are a major driver of this decline, provoking cascading effects with potentially severe consequences to food production in the medium to long run . “ Although the Sustainable Use of Pesticides Directive (SUD) was introduced in 2009, pesticide sales and use in Europe have not decreased. Since then, the European Commission committed, as part of the Green Deal and Farm to Fork Strategy, to reduce the overall use and risk of chemical pesticides by 50% and to cut the use of the most hazardous pesticides by 2030. However, the key policy to achieve these goals - the Sustainable Use Regulation (SUR) - was abandoned in February 2024.  Essential Roadmap Steps Studies demonstrate that it is possible to feed Europe while reducing pesticide dependency; many farmers wish to reduce it. To make this goal reachable, it’s necessary to identify key points and needs: full implementation of the Sustainable Use Directive 2009/128/EC and Pesticide Regulation (EC) No 1107/2009, avoiding the significant deficiencies that can be currently observed. necessary indicators need to be developed, and pesticide use data should be consistently collected, publicly available, and easily accessible. The EU must ensure that farmers and farm workers are adequately supported in transitioning from harmful pesticides. Links and references We invite you to discover more about the Roadmap on the following links. Pan-Europe Press Releases : https://www.pan-europe.info/press-releases/2025/01/time-delay-over-eu-must-phase-out-pesticides-and-build-sustainable-food Roadmap full version : https://www.pan-europe.info/sites/pan-europe.info/files/public/resources/press-releases/Roadmap%20for%20a%20Pesticide%20Phase-Out%20-%20January%202025%20%28FullVersion%29.pdf Roadmap short version : https://www.pan-europe.info/sites/pan-europe.info/files/public/resources/press-releases/Roadmap%20for%20a%20Pesticide%20Phase-Out%20-%20January%202025%20%28Summary%29.pdf

BeeLife is a close-knit family of experts working together like a  well-oiled  bee colony focused on a common goal: ensuring a brighter future for bees and pollinators, but also for European citizens. BeeLife and its members strive to protect pollinators, biodiversity and honey production in a constant synergy of actions and information sharing. An impressive work that requires the proper time to celebrate our broad family and retrace the stages of projects and advocacy programs during the annual   BeeLife General Assembly. The  2025 BeeLife General Assembly  was held in Bologna. It included interactive sessions and a rich agenda, with different spokespersons and stakeholders. BeeLife also mentioned new collaboration opportunities, such as Via Campesina , which is active on human rights, farming on a human scale and the preservation of agroecology for the NGT file, research projects ( Valor and Butterfly ) and representatives of the European Commission, who put us up-to-speed on the actions promoted at the EU level. For the BeeLife team and members, it was a precious moment to see each other, share experiences, objectives and concerns and stimulate interactions among different countries to minimise the negative human impact on the environment due to unconscious decisions.  A mission that will be reached with the help of BeeLife full members and supporter members. We recap the key points discussed during the Assembly here below: 2024 milestones Bee theNet project, Pollinator Hub implementation, a Welcome Pack for new MEPs, the Bee-coherent Tool to point out the MEPs with a pollinators friendly approach during the past years, a renovated website and new brand guidelines are just some of the total projects that have involved BeeLife. CAP The evolution of CAP has driven a   great effort to defend and save the green elements of the Policy. The recent attack on the Green Deal program moved BeeLife and 229 other organisations to express concerns and reasons in an Open letter for the new AGRI commissioner, Christophe Hansen. Chemical Regulation BeeLife is on the first line in advocacy engagement for a sustainable use of pesticides, biocides and veterinary medicines, underlining the threat of toxic chemicals to nature, pollinators, farmers, beekeepers, and final consumers. In this scenario, collaboration with EFSA, EMA and ECHA is crucial. The impact of GMOs (and organisms derived from New Genetic Techniques) The negotiations about the New GMOs (NGTs) regulation are ongoing in Europe. Our recommendation   is the observation of the broader effects on nature. Some studies have been published, and others are ongoing to create consciousness about the possible risks to biodiversity, agriculture, people and food sovereignty. D uring the assembly some members expressed the necessity to create a discussion group about GMO/NGT and this was accepted: a group will be created. Some experts and researchers were involved during the assembly, like Florian Claey and Henrike von der Decken, policy officers at the European Commission's Directorate General for the Environment and Agriculture and Rural Development, respectively, Jeroen van der Sluijs, Professor at Bergen University (Norway), Tom Breeze, researcher of the University of Reading (UK) and Danilo Marandola, researcher at CREA and involved in PAC regulation in Italy.  Interaction among wild pollinators and honey bees The interaction between wild pollinators and honey bees highlights both groups' critical role in ensuring biodiversity and ecosystem health, emphasising the need for integrated conservation strategies and action at the landscape level to generate resources in quantity and quality. EU Honey Platform BeeLife is a stakeholder representing the civil society (NGO) in the European Honey Platform, engaging in technical discussions to better define and characterise honey, put in place a traceability system and add analytical methods to fight against adulteration. By representing beekeepers and advocating for the improvement of the Honey Directive, BeeLife works to ensure the authenticity and quality of honey across Europe among different stakeholders in a delicate balance between production methods and market needs. In this scenario, BeeLife aims to strengthen the integrity and the value of European honey, to avoid unfair competition and to prevent fraudulent practices. 2025 Projects and Budget For 2025, BeeLife confirmed its orientation to create a positive circulation of knowledge. It will use the usual scientific approach to studies, examinations, and case collections from different countries, as well as more communication effort thanks to a new cross-media plan. The members' operational engagement is relevant to make this strategy stronger and more viral.Also, Pesticide Action Week in March and Pollinator Week Event in May are essential actions in the current year's plan. For members agendaWe invite you to follow subsequent communications carefully, bearing in mind: the possibility of being part of the Civil Groups discussion organised by DG AGRI, the opportunity  to organise a new Vespids webinar, the importance  of collecting and translating in English the required information to build a real - cases database about legal disputes and concerns on pollinators' interactions, the conditions  behind Honey Platform evolution, the recommendation  is to give more relevance to common projects sharing information, articles and social posts promoted by BeeLife. Lasse Hellander , President of BeeLife, highlighted: “It is great to see the outstanding participation of colleagues from the national and regional members. The best asset of BeeLife is the compromise of its members and team, building capacity to protect bees, pollinators and the future of our children. We are happy that scientists and decision-makers keep in contact with the field observations and experiences, being able to answer concrete society needs, and we are proud of the collaboration among EU researchers, members and our team to keep a science-driven approach, which enables us to navigate the complex and challenging scenarios with clarity and precision.” For any further information, please write to: comms@bee-life.eu

On February 13th, BeeLife members visited the headquarters of CONAPI (National Beekeepers Consortium) in Italy, reinforcing the synergy between commercial success and environmental responsibility. The visit highlighted how business profitability and environmental advocacy are not mutually exclusive but rather complementary forces driving positive change for pollinators, ecosystems, and European citizens alike. A Model for Sustainable Business CONAPI, Italy’s largest honey supply chain, has been a proud BeeLife member since 2013. With around 250 members, including independent beekeepers and associations, CONAPI is a prime example of how economic viability can coexist with a deep commitment to protecting pollinators and biodiversity. During the visit, BeeLife members explored CONAPI’s production facilities and honey warehouse, witnessing firsthand the efficiency and dedication behind high-quality honey production. The vast network of brands and large-scale distribution channels relying on CONAPI’s beekeepers demonstrates that local, environmentally friendly honey is a valuable resource in today’s market. Aligning Economic Goals with Environmental Stewardship The collaboration between BeeLife and CONAPI underscores the essential role that honey bees and pollinators play in linking economic and ecological interests. Bees not only contribute to biodiversity through pollination but also serve as environmental sentinels, signaling changes in ecosystem health. Their role in maintaining agricultural productivity and providing essential services such as carbon capture, clean air, and climate regulation highlights the dual value of profitability and sustainability. By working together, BeeLife and CONAPI strengthen advocacy efforts for sustainable policies, ensuring that businesses committed to pollinator-friendly practices remain competitive while upholding high environmental standards. Advocacy and Market Integrity A key takeaway from the visit was the importance of advocacy in protecting the honey market from fraudulent practices. BeeLife’s active participation in the EU Honey Platform discussion group is crucial for safeguarding the industry against threats such as adulterated honey, climate change, and pesticide misuse. Guaranteeing the authenticity of honey is not just an economic necessity—it is a commitment to consumer trust and environmental health. CONAPI, recognized by the European Commission for its dedication to biodiversity protection, continues to lead by example. Its advocacy efforts align with BeeLife’s expertise in engaging with European policymakers, ensuring that the voices of beekeepers and environmental stakeholders are heard.  Together, these organizations drive impactful communication campaigns, combining scientific research with public outreach to promote pollinator-friendly policies . Embracing Innovation: Blockchain for Transparency An highlight of the visit was a session led by Chiara Notaro, a food lawyer from Fabrique Law Firm, on blockchain technology's role in the agri-food sector. Chiara outlined how blockchain can enhance traceability and transparency in honey production—two crucial factors in maintaining product quality and market trust. By leveraging blockchain’s decentralized and secure data-tracking capabilities, beekeepers and honey producers can ensure higher standards of authenticity and safety. However, as with any emerging technology, regulatory challenges must be addressed to ensure fair implementation and industry-wide adoption. The discussion provided valuable insights into the balance between innovation and regulation, showcasing how technological advancements can support sustainable and ethical business practices. A Shared Mission for a Pollinator-Friendly Future The BeeLife visit to CONAPI reaffirmed that profitability and environmental advocacy go hand in hand. Businesses that prioritize pollinator protection not only contribute to a healthier planet but also strengthen their market position by aligning with consumer demand for ethical, sustainable products. By fostering strong collaborations between commercial and nonprofit sectors, BeeLife and its members demonstrate that a thriving economy can be built on a foundation of environmental responsibility. Together, they are working to shape a future where pollinators are safeguarded, ecosystems flourish, and sustainable business models pave the way for lasting success. For any further information, please write to: comms@bee-life.eu

Download this press release The EU beekeeping sector faces many challenges. On top of the ones posed by climate change, lack of forage resources, pollutants and the introduction of invasive species, beekeepers struggle to sell their main commercial product: honey . They must compete against low-cost imports, rising production costs and widespread honey fraud.  In 2022, the EU produced only 60% of its honey needs , relying heavily on imports, with  China supplying 36% . A recent study revealed that 46% of imported honey samples didn't meet EU standards , with common fraud practices like mislabelling and s ugar syrup additions.  The hard market situation has been looming for several years. It has become even more acute due to several factors. Professional beekeepers selling their honey in drums are particularly affected, but the impact is also felt in other sector areas. The consequence is the  loss of beekeeping businesses . This affects not only honey production but also the EU's food security . In some EU regions, there are already not enough bee colonies to pollinate agricultural crops sufficiently , as wild pollinators do not cover pollinating needs. If more and more beekeepers are forced out of business, the pollination of numerous crops and wild plants is at stake. BeeLife research on Pollinator Hub and co-partners Data Thanks to a collaboration with Copa-Cogeca, BeeLife, the Pollinator Hub team and the Deutsche Imkerbund have published the Honey Market Report  to analyse honey trade and production data from Eurostat, Trade Map, and FAOSTAT, focusing on imports and exports of "Natural Honey" within and outside the EU. It examines honey flows, price variations, and production costs, incl. fuel, labour, feed, and veterinary products . The study also incorporates production cost data provided by Member States for the last National Apiculture Programmes.  By analysing detailed trade data, production volumes, and import/export trends, the report aims to provide stakeholders  with a comprehensive understanding of the factors affecting the honey market.  This analysis is crucial for devising strategies to support the EU’s beekeeping sector , ensuring its sustainability and resilience against fraudulent practices and market disruptions. Trade agreements implications Several bilateral trade agreements currently under discussion (e.g., the trade agreement with India) or already in force (e.g., the Autonomous Trade Measures for Ukraine) may contribute to maintaining the critical situation of European beekeepers. Other trade agreements, like Mercosur, may worsen the situation, increasing 15,000 t of imported honey from Latin America. Although imports from South America tend to be more expensive than those from Asia or Eastern Europe, they are still a cheap alternative to EU honey. Moreover, European beekeepers can no longer face unfair competition from countries such as China and others that do not respect honey as a natural product.  Are there feasible solutions? The report identifies some solutions and best practices that should be followed by authorities and stakeholders to stop the current EU Honey crises. One solution could be generating more income for beekeeping from the value of pollination by honey and wild bees in the EU, which was estimated at €14,6 billion about 15 years ago. To reverse the negative trend ,  politicians at both the EU and national levels must act now to avoid further jeopardising the survival of the EU's beekeeping sector. Some of the key points are: The fight against adulterated honey must be reinforced by increasing controls, standardising, and developing modern analytical methods to test the product's authenticity. EU and international traceability must be established as soon as possible as an essential tool against fraud. Consumer confidence must be restored to support the marketing of EU honey. Import prices must reflect the actual production costs. There is evidence that this is often not the case. This is also partly linked to honey adulteration, which allows low prices. Anti-dumping duties could be imposed. The import of honey has to be banned from companies or whole countries if they do not respect the definition of honey in the EU Honey Directive or the Codex Alimentarius. Time to act European beekeepers can no longer face unfair competition from countries such as China and others that do not respect honey as a natural product. This situation is exacerbated by certain importers and packers , e.g. from the UK, who import large quantities of cheap honey from China. Lasse Hellander , President of BeeLife , stated: “ The solutions identified must be implemented to save beekeeping and thus ensure food security in the EU. It is evident that simply increasing the price of EU honey further is not the answer : there will still be unfair competition from dubious products labelled as 'honey'. Secondly, it is not in the interests of beekeepers for honey to become a luxury product. Therefore, it is high time we tackle the problems in the beekeeping sector identified in the report . ”  On 28 January , beekeepers from Spain, Portugal and France will mobilise in their countries in front of the Representations of the European Commission to demand, among others, more intensive border controls and improved traceability, a reference laboratory for honey fraud at the EU level, which can accelerate the validation of analytical methods for the detection of adulterated honey. Download the full Honey Market Research and references here

Download PDF - Français - Español - Brussels, 29 May 2018 Dear Commissioner Hogan, We are writing to you regarding the proposed EU Protein Plan, which is due to be published later this year, and would like to ask for a meeting to discuss its content and focus. We very much welcome that the EU is proposing a protein plan. The impacts of the EU’s demand for imported soy protein have for too long led to widespread damage to the environment, sustainable farming and rural livelihoods, especially in the global South. With this in mind, we request that the EU Protein Plan addresses the following issues and recommendations: The link between industrial animal production and plant protein demand Demand for plant protein crops has increased substantially in recent decades due to increased EU production and consumption of animal products, in particular poultry (including eggs) and pig meat, as both animals are more intensively farmed and almost wholly reliant on feed composed of cereal and soybeans. Reducing EU production and consumption of animal products will sizeably reduce demand for protein crops to more sustainable and equitable levels. Land destruction and degradation in third countries The EU’s intensive animal agriculture model, which is designed to meet high production and consumption volumes, drives the conversion of forests and other ecosystems outside the EU. It is therefore critical that the European Commission adopts an Action Plan to halt deforestation and forest degradation, including legislation ensuring that agricultural commodities, including protein crops, linked to the EU market are free from deforestation and fully respect human rights. Promotion of pulses for human nutrition and their environmental benefits Pulses are a rich source of minerals such as iron, zinc and folate, are low in fat, and high in both protein and fibre. They also help contribute to climate mitigation and adaption: they require little water or fertiliser, add valuable nitrogen to the soil and, when grown with other crops, can increase soil fertility and yield. Producing more leguminous crops, especially when part of a solid crop rotation, is also a tool that can assist European farmers in cutting their pesticide dependency. Furthermore, many of their varieties are rich food sources for pollinators. In order to make the food system more resilient and resource-efficient, it is imperative to ensure a sustainable supply of EU protein crops for human consumption. The market for plant-based meat and dairy alternatives is growing rapidly, with plant-based meat alone predicted to reach a global net worth of €4.2bn by 2020, and Europe is currently the largest market for meat substitutes with a 39% global market share. Promoting grain legumes should therefore be a focal point of the strategy. Investing in research into diverse protein crop development There is an urgent need for investment into the research and development of high quality, diverse, nutritious, and often neglected, seed crops and grain legumes (pulses) for human consumption that will benefit human health, the environment and support biodiversity. Policy recommendations: Inclusion of a strategy that sets out concrete measures to reduce production and consumption of animal products, in order to mitigate the detrimental effects of industrial animal farmin and to raise plant protein crop demand for human consumption; Incentivise the production of diverse and underused protein crops for human food, over intensive animal production (including feed); Adoption of an EU Action Plan on deforestation and forest degradation, including legislation to ensure the imports of agricultural commodities, such as protein crops, do not cause deforestation and fully respect human rights; Promote the production of protein crops that contribute in parallel to the production of other goods like beekeeping production or the provision of provisions for wild pollinators; Conduct a full assessment with a results indicator on how the objectives of the Protein Plan can be addressed within the CAP, including: o Ensuring that the purpose of setting aside ‘ecological focus areas’ is not defeated by re-opening them to herbicide use in the name of soy production; o Providing a grant fund under Pillar II to assist farmers in transitioning away from intensive animal farming to the production of protein crops for human food; o Increasing financial and advisory support for crop rotation and diversification practices that involve plant protein cultivation; o Removing support for monocultures, intensive animal farming and other practices that effectively lead to landholding concentration; likewise, these practices should not be supported outside the EU; o Supporting diverse agroecological farming, creating short supply chains from farm to fork at fair prices for farmers and citizens; o Ensuring protein and leguminous seed availability at fair prices, this being an opportunity to induce the ecological breeding of pulses and legumes for human consumption and their marketing in the value chain; o Providing a grant fund under Pillar II to support improved, decentralised facilities for the seed selection and development, processing, storage and marketing of local and regional legumes crop varieties. As civil society organisations representing the interests of EU citizens, we hope that you will grant us a meeting to discuss the issues raised above. We look forward to hearing back from you and remain at your disposal to answer any questions. Yours sincerely, Alexandra Clark, Campaign Manager, Humane Society International/Europe Ariel Brunner, Head of Policy, Birdlife Europe and Central Asia Christian Schrefel, Chairman of the Board, Arche Noah Eric Gall, Deputy Director, IFOAM Francesco Panella, President, BeeLife Jagoda Munic, Director, Friends of the Earth Europe Jeremy Wates, Secretary General, European Environmental Bureau Jeroen Watté, Agroecologist, Wervel Marco Contiero, EU Policy Director on Agriculture, Greenpeace European Unit Marta Messa, Director of the Brussels Office, Slow Food Nicole Polsterer, Sustainable Consumption and Production Campaigner, Fern Olga Kikou, European Affairs Manager, Compassion in World Farming Pierre Sultana, Director of European Policy Office, VIER PFOTEN - Stiftung für Tierschutz Reineke Hameleers, Director, Eurogroup for Animals Szocs-Boruss Miklos-Attila, President, Eco Ruralis

- Français - Español - Professor Dave Goulson drafted a letter calling to restrict neonicotinoids worldwide. The letter counts with 232 signatories from the scientific community and briefly explains the problems with neonicotinoids. Although Europe has taken more significant progress, where the European Parliament has already approved the complete ban on all outdoor uses, Goulson insists on the need to expand the efforts beyond. Dave Goulson is a Professor of Biology at the University of Sussex and a renowned advocator for environmental and biodiversity conservation. You may find the published letter at http://science.sciencemag.org/content/360/6392/973.1.full Professor Goulson has also published a video in which he reads the letter and further explores the situation beyond Europe. "It does not make any sense to have a ban in Europe and nothing anywhere else".

- Français - Español - Dear Commissioner Andriukaitis, Since the next PAFF(1) meeting is taking place later this week on July 19-20, from BeeLife European Beekeeping Coordination, we wish to share our concerns regarding the emergency authorisations of three restricted neonicotinoids (clothianidin, imidacloprid and thiamethoxam) and their evaluation by the European Food Safety Authority. During the nineties, European beekeepers reported the harmful effects of neonicotinoids on bees. Later, after two decades, their pleas were heard. The Commission took a good first step to improve conditions for bees and other pollinators by restricting the use of three neonicotinoids. Besides, this year's ban on all open-air uses of these pesticides reassures EU's commitment to improving the situation. However, adverse effects of neonicotinoids continue to be a threat since some Member States recurrently issue emergency authorisations. The Commission requested EFSA’s assistance to evaluate emergency authorisations issued in 2017, but the evaluations have only been published in June 2018(2). However, EFSA’s reports neither provide an external view of the situation nor do they thoroughly review all the possible alternatives. Unfortunately, the reports have proven to be insufficient to provide an overall assessment of the conditions in the field. For instance, it is worrying to see that they do not review the validity of the authorisations nor include any non-chemical methods as possible alternatives. In fact, EFSA only present other non-banned neonicotinoids, such as acetamiprid and thiacloprid. EFSA provided the technical assistance as requested by the Commission, but it has only taken into account the notification by Member States, meaning it has not considered the validity of the emergency authorisation. Furthermore, it is clear that there is no critical analysis of the claims by national governments about available non-chemical methods. EFSA is an expert on pesticide risk assessment but not necessarily on agronomy or agriculture. It examined each of the proposed alternatives on a country by country basis, without considering that the same alternatives may be efficient across countries. The reports show that there are available alternatives in Hungary, but there is no discussion on the expansion of such alternatives in other territories, where similar measures could be taken. Furthermore, even when taking into consideration the different situations in different countries, one could wonder why some countries which not providing derogations found alternatives to culture the same crops while countries like Bulgaria, Finland or Romania did not. The working document on Article 53 for Emergency Authorisations clearly states that these should only be reserved for "exceptional and restricted cases of obvious dangers to plant production or ecosystems that cannot be contained by any other reasonable means"(3). Nonetheless, Member States continue to issue them without sufficient evidence of the emergency or lack of alternatives. It is necessary that EFSA, perhaps in collaboration with other institutions, reviews the quality of data and arguments presented in notifications of Member States. Especially as it has not put into question the quality of the arguments and the data supporting a 'lack of alternatives'. The situation is urgent, beekeepers from countries where governments massively grant derogations are witnessing the same losses reported in the nineties in countries like France and Italy, even though agricultural methods have evolved enough not to allow these losses to occur again. It shows that in twenty years we learned nothing in Europe about the real risk of these products. The high risk that neonicotinoids pose to bees has already been confirmed, and European institutions have recognised the need to avoid their use to protect both the beekeeping sector and biodiversity. However, beekeepers continue to experience these conditions which we have supposedly overcome in Europe. Even worse, the rules seem to be avoided since many of the notifications Member States present to the Commission are incomplete or have an inferior quality than what is requested. It is clear that to better review the emergency authorisation notifications by Member States, EFSA's technical expertise on risk assessment is not enough. Besides, surprisingly, the quality of the work developed in these evaluations is of inferior scientific quality, subpar of the standard we have seen from EFSA in the last years. The Collaboration among agencies is necessary. We ask the Commission to improve the process to review emergency authorisations, which requires an integrated effort on pesticide risk assessment, agronomy and law. Besides, we ask that the review process is swift, results should be presented before sowing has already been carried out and it is too late to avoid another year of harmful effects on pollinators. We thank you for taking into consideration the presented concerns and for your support to the beekeeping sector. Best regards, Francesco Panella President of BeeLife European Beekeeping Coordination (1) The Standing Committee on Plants, Animals, Food and Feed (2) http://bit.ly/EFSA_EmergencyAuthorisations (3) http://bit.ly/EC_WorkingDoc_EmergencyAuthorisations