FAQ »
June 2020
Statement regarding the use of neonicotinoids in the production of flower bulbs and perennials
Summary
Three plant protection products containing two active substances classed as neonicotinoids were originally authorized for use in the Netherlands. One of these substances has a delivery period and term of use until 3 February 2021. In light of their legal authorization, however, it will not be possible to guarantee that no neonicotinoids are being used in the production of products unless this can be demonstrated by such means as a certification procedure.
Authorization status
Currently, two plant protection products containing one of the two active substances classed as neonicotinoids are legally authorized for the production of flower bulbs in the Netherlands[1]. For perennials, three plant protection products containing one of two active substances classed as neonicotinoids are currently authorized.
Flower bulbs
|
Active substance |
Plant protection product |
|
acetamiprid |
Gazelle (Antilop) |
|
thiacloprid |
Calypso (Bariard) |
Perennials
|
Active substance |
Plant protection product |
|
acetamiprid |
Gazelle |
|
thiacloprid |
Exemptor, Calypso |
The plant protection products based on thiacloprid have a delivery period and term of use until 3 February 2021.
Use
In the Netherlands, significant efforts are being devoted to reducing the use of plant protection products, including neonicotinoids. For instance, research is being carried out on environmentally friendly alternatives for plant protection products or methods. More and more growers are focusing on sustainable crop protection and choosing to use products that are least harmful to bees and natural predators.
Alternatives
Alternatives to neonicotinoids are available for most crops. For certain crops, however, the use of neonicotinoids to control red spider mites and thrips remains necessary to maintain quality at this moment.
Guarantees
In light of the legal authorization of neonicotinoids, it is not possible, of course, to guarantee that no neonicotinoids have been used in the production of flower bulbs or perennials unless this can be demonstrated by such means as a certification procedure.
[1] The Board for the Authorisation of Plant Protection Products and Biocides (Ctgb) in the Netherlands issues authorizations for plant protection products at the national level once the EFSA (the European authorization authority) has authorized this at the EU level. The guiding principle in this authorization is that the plant protection products authorized for use in the Netherlands will be safe for humans, animals and the environment. The Dutch Food and Consumer Product Safety Authority (NVWA) monitors whether plant protection products are being used according to the rules. The NVWA and the Ctgb are government authorities.
