Pesticide Use and Safety Practices in Agricultural Systems
Summary
Pesticides play a pivotal role in modern agriculture by protecting crops from insects, weeds and diseases, thereby sustaining yields and food security worldwide. However, their use presents a complex balance between boosting productivity and safeguarding human health and the environment. Key challenges include the development of pest resistance, contamination of soil and water, and acute or chronic exposure risks to farm workers and consumers. Safety practices such as correct calibration of application equipment, adherence to label instructions and proper disposal of containers are essential to mitigate these risks. Integrated Pest Management (IPM) approaches, which combine biological control, cultural methods and judicious chemical use, are increasingly promoted to reduce reliance on synthetic pesticides. Education, clear labelling and robust regulatory frameworks underpin safe pesticide management, while evolving policies aim to limit the most hazardous substances and promote alternatives that preserve ecosystem integrity and public health.
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Pesticide Use and Safety Practices in Agricultural Systems publication trend
The graph below shows the total number of articles in pesticide use and safety practices in agricultural systems across all publications each year (not limited to Nature Index journals).
Technical terms
Pesticide residue: Trace amounts of pesticide chemicals remaining on or in food after application.
Personal protective equipment (PPE): Clothing and devices—such as gloves, respirators and goggles—designed to shield users from chemical exposure.
Integrated Pest Management (IPM): An ecosystem-based strategy combining biological, cultural and chemical tactics to manage pest populations with minimal environmental impact.
References
- Consumer pesticide concerns and the choice of fruit and vegetable markets in five low- and middle-income countries. Global Food Security (2024).
- Pesticide Knowledge and Safety Practices among Farm Workers in Kuwait: Results of a Survey. International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health (2017).
- Factors influencing Chinese farmers’ proper pesticide application in agricultural products – A review. Food Control (2021).
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