Understanding public and stakeholder attitudes in pollinator conservation policy development

Abstract

Pollinator conservation is a major focus of current conservation attention and public policy. However, an understanding of the social dimensions of pollinator conservation is urgently needed for effective action. In 2014, Ontario became the first jurisdiction in North America to propose to regulate neonicotinoid pesticides, and the proposal included a draft Pollinator Health Action Plan with additional measures to protect pollinator species. We analyzed the 972 comments submitted on the proposal by individual citizens, determining each commenter’s stance, source of information (if applicable), and main concerns. We found very strong support for neonicotinoid regulation, with less than 5% opposed. We also found that the greatest concerns were for bees and pollination services, but that the diversity of pollinating species and the relative contributions of various taxa to pollination was not well understood. Government regulation of neonicotinoid pesticides and other actions to protect pollinator health clearly have the broad support and great interest of the general public, which creates a rare opportunity for conservation policy and action. We conclude that, in order to be effective, broad support will need to be translated into nuanced, evidence-based policy that is focussed on native species and addresses the many threats at-risk pollinators face.