This is not a case of lack of science.  The effects of neonicotinoids has been studied by scientists for years, particularly in Europe where many like Imidacloprid and Clothianidin have been banned either entirely or on particular crops.  Even studies by Bayer (the major producer of neonicotinoids) show the toxicity to bees.  Another point is that the EPA bases their safe use labeling on the studies done by the companies producing the product.  All too often these studies are submitted years after their due date and lack any accurate science data.  Bruce.



























-----Original Message-----

From:    Peter L Borst <[log in to unmask]>

To:      [log in to unmask]

Subject: [BEE-L] More on neonics









I looked at the paper you referenced and was not impressed. In it they state:





> Until our hypothesis of Immune Deficiency in Wildlife can be 
disproved, we believe that all the Environmental Protection Agencies should suspend the neonicotinoid insecticides.





This is not how science works. The null hypothesis is the default. One cannot simply state that "neonics harm bees" and claim that it is a valid hypothesis until proven otherwise. It's like saying that the moon is sending signals to the White House, you prove it isn't so.





The whole principal of science is that if you make a statement where X causes Y, *you* have to make a good case for it. Ultimately, it may not be provable, as Randy stated, but you have to put together a convincing argument. But, to make a case and then declare that it is up to us to show you are wrong, is pretentious, lazy, and absurd.





PLB





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