Various scientists have linked products based on neonicotinoids with the increased winter mortality of beehives that has been observed world-wide. In the Netherlands as well, declining bee populations have been observed for some time, and there are concerns that this decline is linked to the use of neonicotinoids in agriculture.
As part of its assessment of plant protection products and biocides, the Ctgb determines the extent to which the requested uses are a risk for humans, animals and the environment. The risks for the health of bees are included in the assessment. This means that for all authorised neonicotinoid-containing product, an acceptable risk for the health of bees was ascertained at the time of the assessment. (In the risk assessment the Ctgb uses among other things the List of attractive crops.)
With some regularity, new studies and scientific information become available concerning the relationship between neonicotinoids and the health of bees. The Ctgb keeps careful track of all scientific developments in this field. Should new scientific information become available which demonstrates a risk for humans, animals or the environment for authorised uses in the Netherlands, then the Ctgb will take appropriate action.