France's government has delayed its plan to halve pesticide use by 2030, sparking backlash from environmentalists and opposition parties.
In short:
- The French government postponed a 15-year-old plan to reduce pesticide use by 50% by 2030, responding to farmers' protests.
- Agriculture Minister Marc Fesneau announced the delay, citing the plan's impracticality and lack of viable alternatives for farmers.
- Environmental groups and left-wing politicians have strongly criticized the decision, highlighting its potential negative impact on health and the environment.
Key quote:
""It's a poisoned chalice for the farmers. It's lying to the farmers to tell them that everything can be put on pause."
— Marie Toussaint, Greens member of the European Parliament.
Why this matters:
This decision underscores the ongoing challenge of implementing sustainable farming practices while ensuring economic viability for farmers, a dilemma with far-reaching implications for public health and environmental conservation.
Pesticides residues are found on about 70% of tested produce; new research suggests this exposure could impact fertility.
