Widespread Pesticide Pollution Threatens Agricultural Land in Wallonia, Belgium

A recent scientific report from KU Leuven in Belgium revealed environmental findings that raise concerns, showing that around 80% of agricultural soil in the Wallonia region is contaminated with neonicotinoid insecticides.

The study, conducted on samples from 86 agricultural sites between 2023 and 2025, found that these chemicals, known for their negative effects on bees and other pollinators, are present even in lands where pesticides were not applied directly.

The results indicate that the contamination can spread through air and surface runoff, meaning that residues of these compounds are widespread and not limited to treated areas.

The analyses also highlight the presence of pesticides within cover crops planted to protect the soil and feed pollinators, suggesting that the impact of contamination extends to the food chain in the agricultural ecosystem.

Researchers warned that solitary bees can be exposed to pesticide concentrations exceeding 26 times the safe limit, potentially leaving long-term toxic residues in the soil, which affect agricultural and biological environmental quality.

The study called on Belgian authorities to strengthen environmental monitoring, regulate pesticide use, and develop agricultural policies that consider biodiversity protection, particularly vital pollinators for sustainable agriculture.

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