Many approved pesticides still damage pollinator health at doses used in agriculture (see, for example, A. R. Main et al. Agric. Ecosyst. Environ. 287, 106693; 2020). We argue that this is due to a systemic failure in pesticide regulations (see, for instance, S. López-Cubillos et al. Nature 573, 196; 2019) that has been exacerbated by weak enforcement. Stricter laws are needed that are evidence-based, override vested interests and recognize pollinators as essential contributors to food security.

Policymakers must learn from failures in neonicotinoid regulation (see, for example, F. Sgolastra et al. Biol. Conserv. 241, 108356; 2020). Before approval, pesticide risk assessment should incorporate protocols that address sub-lethal effects on pollinators. These include alterations in their behaviour and fitness under ecologically realistic conditions; mandatory testing on diverse species of native pollinators and of colonies for eusocial pollinators; and toxicity evaluation when combined with other chemicals such as proprietary additives, co-occurring pesticides and environmental residues.

Long-term monitoring after approval by appropriate governmental organizations will be necessary to pick up unforeseen environmental interactions promptly.