It is a fact: today we see far fewer crushed insects on the windshields of our cars. And while it may seem trivial, this change is a sign of a profound and serious evolution in our environment.
If you’ve noticed that your windshield is getting cleaner after a long drive, you’re not alone. In the past, it was common to have to clean up squashed bugs after every trip. Today, the impacts are rare. But why are fewer and fewer bugs crashing into our cars?
The decline in insects is a worrying sign. For several years, scientists have observed a drastic decline in insect populations around the world. In the United Kingdom, for example, a crowdsourced study found a 58.5% drop in the number of insects crushed on windshields between 2004 and 2021. Motorists used “splatometers,” small grids placed on their license plates, to count dead insects. The results show a clear decline, confirmed by similar studies in Germany.
There are many reasons for this disappearance. One of the main causes is the intensification of agricultural practices. Pesticides, particularly neonicotinoids, are being singled out. These chemicals, widely used since the 1990s, have a devastating impact on insects, especially bees. These insecticides are absorbed by plants and poison the insects that feed on them. Although some of these products have been banned in Europe, temporary exemptions still allow their use.
In addition to pesticides, the destruction of natural habitats also contributes to the decline in insect numbers. Intensive agriculture and urbanization reduce the spaces where insects can live and reproduce. Monocultures, where a single plant is grown over large areas, are particularly harmful. They deprive insects of the floral diversity they need to survive.
Climate change also plays a role. Higher temperatures, more frequent droughts and extreme weather events disrupt insect life cycles. Additionally, light pollution, especially in urban areas, disorients many nocturnal insects, making them vulnerable and disrupting their reproductive behavior.
The decline in insects has serious consequences for ecosystems. Insects play a crucial role in pollinating plants, breaking down organic matter, and are an essential food source for many species of animals, including birds, reptiles, and amphibians. The decline of insects causes a chain reaction that affects all biodiversity.
Faced with this alarming situation, it is urgent to rethink our agricultural practices and our relationship with the environment. Reducing the use of pesticides, restoring natural habitats and promoting biodiversity are essential measures. Some initiatives, such as organic farming and conservation programs, show that it is possible to produce food while preserving biodiversity.