Reactivity of neonicotinoid insecticides with carbonate radicals

► Cloronicotinoid insecticides show low reactivity towards carbonate radicals. ► The reaction involves an initial charge transfer from the insecticide to CO3−. ► After prolonged irradiation chloronicotinic acid is formed. ► Hydroxyl and sulphate radicals are among the most effective in degrading the insecticides.