Archive · 21 Jul 2026
French lawmakers approve controversial farm bill
French lawmakers passed a new farm bill that lets farmers use two pesticides that were banned because they hurt bees.
This bill was supported by right-wing and far-right lawmakers but opposed by environmental groups like Greenpeace.
The bill also makes it easier to build water-storage infrastructure and includes rules to protect farms from wolves.
The minister in charge of the environment might resign because of this bill.
French lawmakers approved an emergency farm bill allowing temporary use of two banned pesticides.
The bill passed with 296 votes in favor and 224 against, mainly supported by right-wing and far-right lawmakers.
The pesticides acetamiprid and flupyradifurone can be used on hazelnuts, sugar beets, apples, and cherries.
Environmental groups like Greenpeace denounced the bill, citing risks to pollinators and health.
The sugar industry argues the pesticides are necessary to protect crops from aphids.
- Who
- French lawmakers
- What
- Approved an emergency farm bill allowing temporary reintroduction of two banned pesticides
- When
- Early hours of Tuesday, July 21
- Where
- France
- Why
- To protect crops from aphids and address farm income, livestock protection, and wolf attacks
Environmental Groups
Agriculture Industry
Pesticide Use
Environmental Groups
The bill ignores scientific warnings about risks to pollinators, ecosystems, and health.
Agriculture Industry
The pesticides are needed to protect crops from aphids, which have ravaged beet harvests in previous years.
- Bill Approval
- 296 votes to 224
- Pesticides Allowed
- Acetamiprid on hazelnuts, flupyradifurone on sugar beets, apples, and cherries
- Waiver Duration
- Up to three years
- Agency for Approval
- France’s health and safety agency, Anses
- Minister at Risk
- Ecological Transition Minister Monique Barbut