Homebase commit to phase out neonicotinoids by end of 2018

Following news earlier this week that Friends of the Earth were ramping up pressure on Wesfarmers owned Bunnings/Homebase to remove all neonicotinoids from their business, we received notification this evening that they have committed to stop using the insecticide by the end of next year.

Read - Friends of the Earth ramp up pressure on Homebase.

A spokesperson from Bunnings UK&I provided Insight DIY with the following statement:-

"As a responsible retailer, we remain committed to reducing our environmental impact, taking action where necessary with regards to our product ranges and supply chain. We have been working closely with our suppliers and seeking advice from other stakeholders about the use of neonicotinoids and we have committed to stop using these insecticides on garden plants, as well as removing neonicotinoid-based garden care products from sale by the end of 2018".

"This will be supported by a robust audit process, which will include ongoing monitoring of the evolving science surrounding pollinators. This decision took some time while we sought advice from our team and suppliers as well as other key stakeholders. This is consistent with the way we approach any decision that impacts our offer to customers".

This is great news and good to see that yet another major retailer has seen sense and decided to support the campaign to remove all neonicotinoids from the supply chain.

Friends of the Earth has welcomed Homebase’s commitment to stop using neonicotinoids on garden plants, supported by a robust audit process.

Friends of the Earth bee campaigner Dr Nick Rau said:

“We’re delighted Homebase has committed to not using bee-harming neonicotinoid pesticides on its garden plants, and to back this up with a robust auditing process.

“This is great news for our bees, and for the many thousands of people across the UK who urged Homebase to act.

“We hope the Royal Horticultural Society will now back calls for these neonic pesticides to be kept out of our garden plants.”

Source: Insight DIY Team

Image - courtesy of Shutterstock

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