Are pesticides safe to use in farming?

To protect crops from pests and diseases, the use of pesticides have long been used in the agricultural industry in order to maintain an ongoing supply of food. In many cases, pesticides are a necessary addition to enhance crop yield and keep farmers’ food source and income secure. Their role is to deter harmful pests and diseases so the crops are safe from damage, enabling farmers to produce a wide variety of produce without the risk of food scarcity, especially in communities where food source is limited.

However, the use of pesticides is an ongoing topic of debate for many people as there are some detriments to human health and the environment. Many consumers choose to avoid food products which were grown using pesticides since there have been studies which show that exposure to certain pesticides has been linked with health effects, such as skin irritation and respiratory issues. Although there are safety regulations in place, there are a growing number of consumers looking to stay clear of pesticides completely.

The environment is another primary concern surrounding the use of pesticides. When used excessively, they contaminate water sources, soil and air quality, leading to harm to the ecosystems since animal health is impacted and habitats become unusable.

There are a range of regulations in place to govern the use of pesticides in the agriculture industry, controlling use so that risk to human health is minimized and environmental damage is limited. All pesticides must be approved for use, undergoing thorough testing on human health and wildlife to assess their potential toxicity. With awareness around the potential damage becoming more and more known among both consumers and agriculture workers, there has been a huge sway towards more sustainable farming practices over recent years. Modern farming techniques such as crop rotation and the use of pest-resistant crop varieties mean that the need for pesticides is reduced, overcoming the obstacles faced.