The EU ban on crop pesticides that can harm bees and other pollinators has been reported in some quarters as a victory for environmentalism (in spite of resistance from the UK government). A study from Utrecht University by Jeroen van der Sluijs (http://www.guardian.co.uk/environment/2013/may/01/study-links-insecticide-invertebrate-die-off?INTCMP=SRCH) suggests, however, that the ban will have only a modest impact on imidacloprid levels in the environment as it would still be used to counter ectoparasite (fleas and ticks) infestations in cattle and companion animals (dogs and cats). The insecticide, used in this fashion, finishes up at high concentrations in ditches, streams and lakes where it can reduce the numbers of invertebrate species (notably snails and dragonflies) to only 30% of those found in pristine surface waters. The author of the study suggests an outright ban.
This blog may help people explore some of the 'hidden' issues involved in certain media treatments of environmental and scientific issues. Using personal digital images, it's also intended to emphasise seasonal (and other) changes in natural history of the Swansea (South Wales) area. The material should help participants in field-based modules and people generally interested in the natural world. The views are wholly those of the author.
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