Following aggressive opposition including demonstrations by farmers in many E.U. capitals, the European Commission has withdrawn a proposal to reduce pesticide use by half before 2030.

Ursula von der Leyen, President of the Commission observed, “Our farmers need to be listened to”.  She added, “I know they are worried about the future of agriculture and their future as farmers”. 

The change in policy was welcomed by farmers groups who characterized the “Green Deal” as a “ top-down proposal” poorly designed, poorly evaluated, poorly financed and offering little alternatives to farmers”.

At issue is the reality that by injudiciously reducing the application of pesticides, crop yields will be adversely affected creating a financial burden for farmers and increasing the cost of food to consumers.