Young European citizens presented a series of recommendations aimed at halting the decline of pollinators in Europe, at the end of the final session, on Sunday 8 March, of the Young Citizens’ Assembly on Pollinators, organised by the European Commission.
Meeting for nine months, the Assembly brought together nearly 100 young Europeans aged between 18 and 29 to examine the causes of and solutions to the alarming decline of wild pollinating insects.
The proposals include reducing the use and toxicity of pesticides, protecting and restoring pollinator habitats in the countryside and cities, and moving towards biodiversity-friendly farming practices.
The participants also call for stronger monitoring and enforcement of existing environmental policies, and increased funding for conservation. The creation of a permanent Young Citizens Assembly on Biodiversity is proposed.
Pollinators (solitary bees, bumblebees, hoverflies, butterflies) are involved in the reproduction of almost 80% of crops and wild flowering plants. However, their populations are under threat from agricultural intensification, pollution, invasive species and climate change.
Further details: https://aeur.eu/f/l30 (Original version in French by Lionel Changeur)