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Environmental risks and challenges associated with neonicotinoid insecticides

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journal contribution
posted on 2023-06-09, 12:23 authored by Michelle L Hladik, Anson R Main, Dave GoulsonDave Goulson
Neonicotinoid use has increased rapidly in recent years, with a global shift toward insecticide applications as seed coatings rather than aerial spraying. While the use of seed coatings can lessen the amount of overspray and drift, the near universal and prophylactic use of neonicotinoid seed coatings on major agricultural crops has led to widespread detections in the environment (pollen, soil, water, honey). Pollinators and aquatic insects appear to be especially susceptible to the effects of neonicotinoids with current research suggesting that chronic sublethal effects are more prevalent than acute toxicity. Meanwhile, evidence of clear and consistent yield benefits from the use of neonicotinoids remains elusive for most crops. Future decisions on neonicotinoid use will benefit from weighing crop yield benefits versus environmental impacts to nontarget organisms and considering whether there are more environmentally benign alternatives.

History

Publication status

  • Published

File Version

  • Accepted version

Journal

Environmental Science & Technology

ISSN

0013-936X

Publisher

American Chemical Society

Issue

6

Volume

52

Page range

3329-3335

Department affiliated with

  • Evolution, Behaviour and Environment Publications

Full text available

  • Yes

Peer reviewed?

  • Yes

Legacy Posted Date

2018-03-06

First Open Access (FOA) Date

2019-02-26

First Compliant Deposit (FCD) Date

2018-03-06

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