More buzz on neonicotinoids

Chicago-based True Value Company says phasing out neonic pesticides is an option as alternatives become available.

Memphis, Tennessee-based Orgill says that selling environmentally safe products is a high priority.

The two distributors weighed in on the continuing environmental story of neonicotinoids, a pesticide used in plants. The dwindling honey-bee population is driving concern over certain pesticides, and one one group of chemicals often mentioned as the villain in the discussion is neonicotinoids.

“I can tell you that True Value Company has been working with our suppliers to understand the research and science of neonicotinoids,” said Jean Niemi, communications director for the co-op. “We are pleased to currently offer alternative eco-friendly pesticides for our retailers to sell to customers. As additional, suitable alternatives become commercially available we will look to phase out the sale of products that contain neonic pesticides.”

At Orgill, GM-Sales & Purchasing Brett Hammers said: “I think this is a really important topic and should be a concern to everyone. In short, Orgill has an ongoing commitment to provide all of our customers fully compliant and environmentally safe products. That holds true now as well as into the future.”

Late last month, Ace Hardware Corp. announced a willingness to move away from products containing neonicotinoids, as alternatives become available.

Late last year, Home Depot mandated an extra tag of neonic-treated plants. And earlier this year Lowe’s announced a phaseout of neonicotinoids, targeting the year 2019 as the end of the pesticide on store shelves.

[Corrected: An earlier version of this story included an incorrect title for Brett Hammers.]