RONA pushes suppliers to reduce neonicotinoids

BOUCHERVILLE, Que. — RONA is the latest DIY retailer to announce it will reduce the use of pesticides that have been linked to declining bee populations worldwide. The giant retailer is encouraging its suppliers to reduce the use of neonicotinoids to treat plants sold in its stores. It will embark on a program of customer education through its website and in-store. This year, 70% of all plants sold in corporate RONA and Reno-Depot stores have been grown without neonicotinoids. In 2016, all of the company’s plant suppliers will be required to clearly identify their products according to whether or not they contain the noxious pesticide.