Take Action Now to Protect Bees from Harmful Pesticides!
-- Due to overwhelming response, Health Canada has extended deadline for comments to March 23rd, 2017 --
Science is clear that use of neonic pesticides is one of the biggest threats to bees in North America.(1)
Right now, Health Canada is accepting public comments on eliminating one of these bee-killing pesticides.
Health Canada has studied the issue and puts forth good arguments for banning one of the worst neonic pesticides called imidacloprid right now. Imidacloprid is of particular concern because of its excessive use, and the strong science that confirms its presence and accumulation in aquatic systems.
Health Canada’s research found:
- Imidacloprid is being measured in our waterways at levels that are harmful to aquatic insects. These insects are an important part of the ecosystem, including as a food source for fish, birds and other animals.
- There is potential risk to birds and small mammals from feeding on seeds that are treated with imidacloprid
The Health Canada conclusion: “Use of imidacloprid in agricultural areas is not sustainable”(2)
But instead of banning this pesticide immediately, Health Canada says it's introducing regulations to phase it out slowly over the next 3 to 5 years.
This doesn’t make sense -- Is Health Canada listening to pesticide companies over the voices of farmers and concerned Canadians?
Bees, bugs, and birds need our help now. The rusty-patched bumblee was one of the most common bees in Southern Ontario but is now considered engangered there - and pesticides are a contrbuting factor. (3)
Pesticides like imidacloprid already do significant damage - letting this continue for 3 to 5 years is unconscionable.
Tell Health Canada to listen to its own research and ban imidacloprid now.
Send your letter and comments to Health Canada today. Please note that personalized messages get a lot more attention from decision-makers!
Public comment period ends March 23rd – so act today!
P.S. - In the coming year, 2 more proven bee-killer pesticides may be coming up for regulation - clothianidin and thiamethoxam. We need to show Health Canada we care about this issue by coming on strong right now!
Please send your letter today! 
Thank you for taking action.
