French health experts warn against pesticide that wipes out bees

<h2France debates the reintroduction of acetamiprid, a pesticide sparking widespread concern

The French parliament adopted a law permitting the use of acetamiprid on July 8. The chemical, despite its ecological risks, remains popular among many European farmers. The decision was reached without a thorough debate, a move that intensified criticism across the country.

Public outcry and a growing petition

• More than two million signatures have been collected by Tuesday on a student‑initiated petition opposing the legislation.
• University lecturers, left‑wing lawmakers and celebrated chefs have publicly backed the petition.

Health experts cast doubt on the law

In a letter printed in Le Monde, several health specialists and patient associations declared their opposition to the law. They argued that the pesticide could endanger both adult and child health, claiming it “doubles as a bee‑killer.” The signatories included:

• Agnes Linglart, president of the French Paediatric Society.
• Olivier Coutard, president of the scientific council of France’s flagship research centre CNRS.
• Gerard Socie, president of the scientific council of the National Cancer Institute.

The letter’s plea to the Constitutional Council

Health experts and patient associations urged the Constitutional Council to reject the law. They invoked the council’s duty to “protect future generations from legislation that, without a shadow of reasonable doubt, compromises the health of young people, children, and the unborn.” The petition’s signatories also highlighted that the Senate committee drafting the law had consulted agricultural unions and government agencies, but not doctors, toxicologists or epidemiologists. They noted that senators did not engage with CNRS representatives or health and labour ministries, even though occupational pesticide exposure remains a human risk factor.

Evidence linking pesticides with disease

The letter cited the INSERM health and medical research organisation, pointing to documented links between pesticide exposure and the occurrence of:

• Cancers.
• Neurodegenerative disorders.
• Pulmonary and hormone‑related ailments.

Macron’s stance and the upcoming Constitutional Council verdict

President Emmanuel Macron, facing increasing pressure, stated that he is waiting for the Constitutional Council’s verdict, expected on August 7. The council is set to evaluate the law’s constitutionality.

Acetamiprid’s current standing in Europe

Acetamiprid was banned in France since 2018 but remains legal across the European Union. The reform law seeks to re‑legalise its use within France while maintaining its EU status.