6 May 2011 | Christos A. Damalas and Ilias G. Eleftherohorinos
The article by Damalas and Eleftherohorinos discusses the widespread use of pesticides in agriculture to prevent or control pests, diseases, and weeds, and the associated health and environmental risks. Despite strict regulations, concerns remain about occupational exposure and residues in food and water. The risk assessment of pesticides is complex due to varying exposure periods, levels, and types of pesticides, as well as environmental factors. The registration process for pesticides involves rigorous testing to ensure safety, but the accuracy of risk assessments is limited by the methods used. Human exposure to pesticides can occur through occupational and non-occupational routes, with factors such as formulation, packaging, weather conditions, and hygiene practices affecting exposure levels. The health effects of pesticides are assessed through toxicity tests, and the risk to human health is evaluated using various criteria. Environmental impacts include contamination of water, soil, and air, and harm to non-target organisms. The authors emphasize the need for new tools and techniques to predict and reduce adverse effects, as well as the development of alternative cropping systems and safer pesticide formulations. Proper use and maintenance of spraying equipment, along with adherence to safety guidelines, can minimize exposure and its consequences. The paper concludes by highlighting the importance of integrated pest management (IPM) and the potential of new agrochemicals to reduce the negative impacts of pesticides on human health and the environment.The article by Damalas and Eleftherohorinos discusses the widespread use of pesticides in agriculture to prevent or control pests, diseases, and weeds, and the associated health and environmental risks. Despite strict regulations, concerns remain about occupational exposure and residues in food and water. The risk assessment of pesticides is complex due to varying exposure periods, levels, and types of pesticides, as well as environmental factors. The registration process for pesticides involves rigorous testing to ensure safety, but the accuracy of risk assessments is limited by the methods used. Human exposure to pesticides can occur through occupational and non-occupational routes, with factors such as formulation, packaging, weather conditions, and hygiene practices affecting exposure levels. The health effects of pesticides are assessed through toxicity tests, and the risk to human health is evaluated using various criteria. Environmental impacts include contamination of water, soil, and air, and harm to non-target organisms. The authors emphasize the need for new tools and techniques to predict and reduce adverse effects, as well as the development of alternative cropping systems and safer pesticide formulations. Proper use and maintenance of spraying equipment, along with adherence to safety guidelines, can minimize exposure and its consequences. The paper concludes by highlighting the importance of integrated pest management (IPM) and the potential of new agrochemicals to reduce the negative impacts of pesticides on human health and the environment.