The Insect Crisis and the Threat of Modern Pesticides

Why Regenerative Agriculture is More Important Than Ever

Research is clear: we are in the midst of an insect crisis. In just three decades, 70–80% of insect biomass has disappeared in parts of Europe. This is not just about bees and butterflies – but also vital groups such as beetles, wasps, and other pollinators and decomposers.

One of the main causes is intensive agriculture's use of pesticides, where neonicotinoids play a particularly harmful role.

Acetamiprid – Not Harmless

Acetamiprid is currently the only neonicotinoid still permitted in the EU. It is considered "less acutely toxic," but this does not make it harmless:
- It affects the nervous system of insects, which can lead to impaired orientation, learning, and reproduction.
- It has long-term environmental effects and impacts not only pests but also beneficial organisms.
- The effect is often amplified through cocktail effects with other chemicals in conventional agriculture.
- It contributes to an agricultural system where the soil microbiome, pollinators, and ecosystem services are weakened over time.

A Sustainable Alternative – Regenerative Agriculture

At farms like Hasta Gård, we choose a different path. By:
- strengthening soil microbiology and building healthy ecosystems,
- working with crop rotations, intercropping, and natural enemies,
- focusing on compost, biochar, and microbial solutions,

we create an agriculture where we build resilience instead of fighting symptoms. We promote biodiversity and restore the balance in the soil – something that is not possible in a chemical-dependent system.

Conclusion

Continuing to use substances like acetamiprid – despite its approval – threatens both biodiversity and human food security. The regenerative path is not just an alternative – it is a necessary systemic change.

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