Organic and green groups say that last week’s vote by the European Parliament to reject ambitious pesticide reduction measures, a key plank of the European Green Deal, was “shameful” and a “dark day for EU democracy”.  

With 299 votes against the Sustainable Use of Plant Protection Products Regulation (SUR), 207 in favour, and 121 abstentions, MEPs rejected a package of draft legislation that had been negotiated intensely for months.

The vote came amid claims by Green Party MEPs that the right within the Parliament had worked with the far right to help agri-chemical lobbyists ensure the high-profile legislation was ditched. 

Green Deal is dead
Pesticide Action Network Europe declared after the vote that “the Green Deal is dead”. Commenting, Martin Dermine, PAN Europe executive director, said: “Thousands of scientists and millions of citizens have demanded reduction of pesticides to protect health and the environment. By not addressing these demands, the European Parliament is sending a negative signal to voters on its ability to deal with major societal issues. It is evident that the agrilobby has taken control of our House of Democracy.`’

“This is a historical black day for EU citizens and ecosystems, for the Green Deal and for the EU project overall”, added policy officer Kristine De Schamphelaere. “The rejection of the proposal shows a shocking disregard for science, the public interest and the will of EU citizens. Most votes were guided by vested interests and disinformation by the agro-chemical industry.”

Shameful
IFOAM Organics Europe called the vote “shameful”. Deputy director, Eric Gall, said: “Politicians who claim that they defend farmers by refusing to reduce synthetic pesticides fool themselves and the public. Policymakers’ lack of political will to take action to reduce pesticides makes it even more obvious that developing organic farming is the best way to protect people’s health and nature from toxic pesticides.”