UK Wildlife

Pesticide Reduction and Invertebrate Welfare

Pesticide use in agriculture and gardens causes direct and indirect harm to invertebrates including bees, butterflies, and beetles, with welfare and ecological consequences across food webs.

Key Facts

Neonicotinoid pesticides cause sub-lethal effects on bee navigation, reproduction, and immune function
Insecticide use has declined in UK but herbicides removing food plants are also harmful
Integrated pest management reduces pesticide use while maintaining crop protection
UK government rolled back neonicotinoid restrictions for sugar beet in 2023 despite welfare concerns
Organic farming significantly reduces pesticide exposure for invertebrates

Welfare Considerations

Pesticide welfare impacts on invertebrates include direct toxicity, sub-lethal impairment, and indirect effects through food web disruption. Reducing pesticide use in gardens and advocating for agricultural restrictions are both important welfare actions.

What You Can Do

Avoid all pesticides in gardens and use integrated pest management alternatives
Advocate for continued restrictions on neonicotinoid pesticides
Support organic farming through purchasing organic products where possible