Report: Dramatic rise in pesticides in EU fruits, vegetables
ABC News
New research says the contamination of fruits and vegetables produced in the European Union by some of the most toxic pesticides has substantially increased over the past decade
BRUSSELS -- The contamination of fruits and vegetables produced in the European Union by the most toxic pesticides has substantially increased over the past decade, according to new research published Tuesday.
The study by the Pesticide Action Network Europe group said European citizens have been exposed to a “dramatic rise" in both the frequency and intensity of residues of pesticides.
The EU has strict rules concerning pesticides and previously said it wants to halve their use of by 2030 as part of its goal to cut greenhouse gas emissions to zero by mid-century.
Contrary to data from the EU's executive branch showing a 12% reduction of the more dangerous pesticides in 2019 compared to the 2015-2017 period, the “Forbidden Fruit" report claims their use actually increased by 8.8%.
