Neonics, the New DDT

Calling it the “new DDT,” scientists, educators, and environmentalists met at a conference hosted by the Connecticut Pesticide Reform coalition, at Trinity College in Hartford, CT on March 11, 2024, to discuss the danger to humans and wildlife from neonicotinoids, a type of pesticide often used on crops, golf courses, lawns, and gardens.

“Neonics, the New DDT—What You Need to Know About the Pesticides Harming Connecticut’s Birds, Bees, Wildlife and People” was aimed at educating environmental advocates, state residents, and government officials on how they can join forces to reduce the use of these pesticides in Connecticut. Pollinator Pathway is part of the Connecticut Pesticide Reform coalition which is working to persuade the Connecticut General Assembly to pass a bill strictly regulating the use of neonicotinoids, also known as neonics. In Connecticut, neonics are used mainly on lawns and golf courses and, on a smaller scale, in agriculture. To learn more and see a summary of the presentations and a recording, visit CT Audubon's Conference report HERE.