Political Support and Environmental Opposition to Duplomb Law Amid Crisis

The Duplomb law, enacted on July 8, 2025, has stirred significant political and public debate amidst an ongoing agricultural crisis in France. The legislation allows for the controlled reintroduction of the pesticide acetamipride, eases livestock farming regulations, and facilitates large water retention basins, known as mégabassines. Local officials in Orne and Calvados have rallied behind the law, arguing it is essential to support a beleaguered agricultural sector facing tightening competition and regulatory pressures.

While supporters, including Senator Pascal Allizard and Deputy Freddy Sertin, emphasize the law’s potential to enhance farm sustainability and profitability, environmental groups have mounted a fierce opposition. They describe the law as a dangerous step backward for ecological progress, fearing that the reintroduction of acetamipride, despite strict regulations, could lead to wider environmental harm. In a stark demonstration of public sentiment, nearly 2 million signatures have been collected for a petition against the law, highlighting substantial opposition from the community.

Supporters assert that the challenges facing French agriculture necessitate such measures. Allizard argues that failing to support farmers could lead to a significant decline in the agricultural sector itself, branding it a ‘regression’ if their needs are overlooked. The debate underscores a deepening divide regarding the balance between agricultural support and ecological sustainability as France navigates its agricultural crisis.