Written evidence submitted by CropLife UK (INS0035)

About CropLife UK

CropLife UK is the voice of the UK crop protection solutions sector, promoting the essential role of science and innovation in protecting food, parks, gardens, roads and railways. We advocate good stewardship, better regulation and best practice. Our members are involved in the development and manufacture of a wide range of crop solutions, which are of crucial importance to the cultivation and protection of food crops, as well as protecting our gardens, woodlands, infrastructure and public places. These solutions include the formulation and manufacture of plant protection products (inc. biopesticides), seed and plant breeding, agricultural biotechnology and digital and precision agriculture.

Executive Summary

Our response aims to provide an evidence-based perspective on the impact of pollinators on food security and the factors influencing their populations. CropLife UK recognises that pollinator populations have declined in recent years; however, the impact this is having on food security is limited compared to losses due to climate change, extreme weather and crucially pests and diseases, which alone account for around 20-40% of crop yield loss[1] today.

Productive agriculture has enabled an epochal shift in the way we live and eat. Around the world, populations have a far more dependable source of healthy, affordable, and nutritious food than at any point in history. However, this has come at a cost, with human land use causing loss of biodiversity and habitats worldwide. Crop science can be part of the solution. By more productively farming high-quality agricultural land, it is possible to rebuild lost habitats and reverse biodiversity loss elsewhere[2].

As an industry, we are already providing solutions and enabling growers to do the same. While some see productive agriculture as being at odds with biodiversity gain, the truth is more nuanced. According to a 2009 report by the Royal Society, the most accessible and beneficial way to reduce the environmental impact of agricultural inefficiencies is to reduce pest and disease loss. 

Introduction

While it is true that around 75% of crops rely on pollinators to some extent[3], only about one-third of global crop production is entirely dependent on them[4]. According to the World Economic Forum, in the total absence of pollinators, crop production would decline by around 5% in higher-income countries and 8% in lower-to-middle-income countries[5]. It is worth noting that such a decline in pollinators could disproportionately affect the economic situation of low-income farmers who rely on cash crops, such as cocoa, coffee, soybeans, palm oil and avocados, for trade.

There is evidence indicating that some pollinator insects are experiencing population declines, whilst some are increasing[6] . Whilst some insect populations are vital for ecological services and their decline, primarily due to habitat loss, is concerning, looking across the board the picture is more complex. A Centre for Ecology & Hydrology study found one-third of insect pollinator species in Great Britain declining in distribution, while key bee species increased, possibly due to mass-flowering crops and government-supported wildflower planting[7]. Whilst this does not mean government and wider civil society should rest on its laurels, it does paint a more complex picture.

The evidence indicates that the key driver of pollinator decline is habitat loss, with increasing evidence of climate change related impacts particularly on species distribution.  Evidence linking fertilisers, plant protection products and other factors to pollinator population changes remains limited and may be related to the use of land for farming. Consequently, efforts to protect and enhance pollinator habitats should be prioritised in policy.

Pollinators play a crucial yet limited role in food security and UK agriculture. Although around 35% of global food production is dependent on pollinators directly or indirectly, the percentage for the UK is likely much smaller. However, in the UK crops dependent on insect pollination, such as the horticulture sector and glasshouse situations, supplementary pollination “services”, such as the introduction of beehives, are routinely used. Primary UK crops, such as wheat and barley, rely on wind or self-pollination, making them less dependent on pollinators. This means that pollinator-dependent crops represent only a proportion of the UK's total agricultural output. Nevertheless, pollinators contribute significantly to the production of fruits, vegetables, and other crops with higher nutritional value.

While pollinators have a relatively limited impact on the UK's overall agricultural output, they play a vital role in producing some high-value crops that contribute to a healthy and nutritious diet. As such, it is essential to continue supporting and protecting pollinator populations for the benefit of both the environment and human health. However, this must not come at the cost of diminished national food security, nor by ‘offshoring’ production overseas and driving up higher prices for consumers at home and around the world.

Pollinator Decline

Various factors contribute to the decline of pollinator populations in the UK. The primary driver is habitat loss. This includes the disappearance of flower-rich habitats and nesting sites, which are essential for pollinators to thrive. As a relatively small and densely populated country urbanisation and infrastructure development contribute to habitat fragmentation, reducing the availability of suitable environments for these insects. A study by the Centre for Ecology & Hydrology highlights the widespread loss of pollinating insects in Britain due to these factors[8].

Other possible contributors to pollinator decline include climate change[9] where there is an increasing body of evidence., Disease can be important, and possibly agricultural inputs such as fertilisers or plant protection products (PPPs) which are oft suggested factors but where there is little evidence to separate observed effects from the use of the land for farming. Climate change could affect pollinator populations by altering plant flowering times, which can disrupt the food sources of pollinators. Additionally, climate change could cause changes in pollinator distribution, leading to mismatches with their preferred plant species, and increase the frequency of extreme weather events that impact their survival.  Even if overall population levels are not affected by climate change, local decline may occur due to climate related changes in distribution.

There is little evidence that PPPs are direct drivers of pollinator decline, but it is possible that there is a correlation with the effects on pollinators of using land for farming.  PPPs are strictly regulated and can only be used when they present no unacceptable risk to non-target organisms, including pollinators. When used correctly and according to label instructions, the impact of PPPs on pollinator populations is negligible. Despite increasing regulatory restrictions on PPPs and the loss of active substances in recent years, including the restrictions on neonicotinoids in 2013 and a prohibition in 2018, no measurable increases in biodiversity or pollinator numbers have been observed.

The regulatory system for plant protection products (PPPs) plays a crucial role in safeguarding the environment and non-target species, including pollinators. This robust process ensures that PPPs are only authorised for use after a thorough evaluation of their potential effects on non-target species has been conducted. By determining that population levels will not be adversely affected, regulators prioritise the protection of these species while still supporting agricultural productivity. This careful balance contributes to sustainable agriculture practices and the preservation of our ecosystems, demonstrating the importance of a strong regulatory framework for PPPs.

The proper use of Integrated Pest Management (IPM) further mitigates risks associated with PPPs. IPM is a comprehensive approach to pest control that combines various tactics, such as biological, chemical, and cultural methods, to minimise pest damage while using PPPs only where justified. For growers, IPM underlines the significance of understanding and monitoring pest populations, identifying suitable control measures, and implementing these strategies in a coordinated manner. This approach supports pollinator protection, environmental sustainability, and food security by promoting responsible PPP use, preserving beneficial organisms, and maintaining crop productivity. Whilst accurate figures are not easily obtainable, it is thought that a large proportion of farmers are already using IPM either entirely or in part.

CropLife UK members' policies and practices

CropLife UK members are committed to promoting sustainable agriculture and protecting pollinators through various policies and practices. One of the key strategies they advocate for is Integrated Pest Management (IPM). This approach ensures growers use the most appropriate solution at the right time to manage pests while minimising environmental impact.

Members actively engage in research, focusing on a wide range of pest control methods and other crop solution technologies. They also support research and development aimed at improving the selectivity of plant protection products (PPPs) and reducing their environmental impact. By advocating for the responsible use of PPPs, CropLife UK members work to minimise exposure to pollinators and maintain a healthy balance in the ecosystem.

To help farmers adopt best practices and application techniques, CropLife UK members provide training and resources tailored to their specific needs. This empowers growers to make informed decisions about pest management and further protect pollinators.

Collaboration is a key aspect of CropLife UK members' efforts. They work with various stakeholders to promote pollinator conservation and habitat restoration. This includes developing and supporting projects that create pollinator habitats on farmland, as well as collaborating with local communities to establish pollinator-friendly spaces in urban areas.

Furthermore, CropLife UK members contribute to the restoration of essential habitats such as hedgerows, wildflower meadows, and other natural environments. These efforts help ensure a sustainable future for pollinators and the ecosystems they support.

In summary, CropLife UK members actively promote the responsible use of PPPs, invest in research and development, provide training to farmers, and collaborate with stakeholders to protect pollinators and their habitats. These practices demonstrate a commitment to sustainable agriculture and a recognition of the vital role pollinators play in our food systems and ecosystems.

Conclusion

Pollinators play a crucial, albeit limited in the UK, role in food security and agriculture, particularly in the production of high-value, nutritionally rich crops. Addressing the multiple factors contributing to pollinator decline in the UK, such as habitat loss and climate change, is essential for ensuring the long-term health of these vital insects and their role in food production and ecosystems. CropLife UK members are committed to promoting sustainable agricultural practices and protecting pollinators by advocating for IPM, investing in research and development, providing training to farmers, and collaborating with stakeholders to restore and conserve pollinator habitats. These efforts demonstrate a dedication to sustainable agriculture and a recognition of the importance of pollinators in maintaining balanced ecosystems and supporting our food systems.

CropLife UK calls on government to promote measures that support growers in the continued use of properly defined IPM as part of a sustainable approach to productive agriculture. We also call on government to deliver policies that support productive agriculture in the right places to enhance national food security and allow other land to be given over to habitat creation; a clear and measurable way to boost biodiversity.

10 May 2023