The French Parliament adopted the agricultural emergency law known as "Duplomb," which allows for the temporary reintroduction of two previously banned insecticides [1], [2].
The move represents a significant shift in environmental policy. It pits the immediate needs of the agricultural sector against the long-term protection of pollinators and public health.
The National Assembly voted on the measure on July 20, 2024 [3]. The Senate provided the final approval on July 21, 2024 [4]. Among the chemicals permitted to return is acétamipride [5].
Government officials said the temporary reintroduction is necessary to address an agricultural emergency [6]. However, the decision has faced scrutiny from environmental groups and beekeepers, who said these chemicals threaten pollinators [6].
The backlash has been widespread, with more than two million French citizens mobilizing against the law [7]. The political fallout was further highlighted by the resignation of Minister Monique Barbut following the adoption of the legislation [8].
Opponents of the law describe the return of these pesticides as a step backward for ecological safety. The controversy centers on the balance between crop yields and the survival of bee populations, which are critical for the broader ecosystem [6].
“The 'Duplomb' law allows for the temporary reintroduction of two previously banned insecticides.”
The adoption of the Duplomb law signals a prioritization of short-term agricultural stability over strict environmental prohibitions. By allowing the return of acétamipride and another insecticide, the French government is testing the political and ecological limits of its 'green' transition, potentially creating a legal precedent for other banned substances to be reintroduced during declared emergencies.
