BJ’s Wholesale Goes Neonic Free

Chris Beytes

It’s not new news (the letter was dated June 25, 2014), but it was news to us, so it might be news to you, as well: BJ’s Wholesale Club told Friends of the Earth in a letter that they planned to stop selling neonic-treated plants and products containing neonics. Vendors who sell plants treated with neonics have to label them thusly: “Treated with neonicotinoids, use caution around pollinators.” In addition, plant vendors who use neonics are required to submit a plan or process used to protect bees when using neonics (i.e., timing, segregation, etc.).

In the letter, assistant vice president of Quality Assurance and Environmental Stewardship Scott Williams, wrote, “BJ’s Wholesale Club is proud to share our commitment to keeping bees safe in the environment. Bees are an essential part of a healthy ecosystem and healthy world, which is why BJ’s ensures that our products are helping, not hurting, our buzzing friends. We’ve worked closely with our Vendor Partners to provide lawn care, dispensable pesticide, pet care and fresh cut floral products that are neonicotinoid-free.

“We thank you for the good work that Friends of the Earth does to help protect bees. BJ’s Wholesale Club is proud to be your partner in this important initiative. Please feel free to share our program information with your supporters. Together with other companies and consumers throughout the country, we are all becoming more aware of the effects that neonicotinoids have on our environment and are taking the right steps to be more responsible.”

BJ’s operates some 200 stores in 15 Eastern and Midwestern states. GT