Unanimous vote: Portland bans neonicotinoids to protect bees from deadly pesticide

‘After the disturbing death in 2013 of tens of thousands of bees in Wilsonville, Oregon believed to be linked to a class of insecticides called neonicotinoids, Portland, Oregon has decided — after a recent unanimous vote — to ban use of these toxic chemicals on city-owned property. The ban does not prevent people from using neonicotinoids on private property within the city.

The City Council initially presented the proposal to bee advocates, local residents, several biologists and conservation groups — all of whom testified in favor of the plan to ban neonicotinoids. Focus on the Wilsonville incident was frequently referenced, undoubtedly serving as grounds for the decision.’

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