Impact of - IDL-BNC @ IDRC - International Development Research ...

pests) is observed. Thus, the "quick knock-down" but generally very toxic,
broad-spectrum organophosphates such as methyl parathion are popular.
Application of systemic pesticides is less common.
Pesticide storage on the farm is almost always unsatisfactory. On larger farms,
pesticides are often stored in separate buildings. However, on small farms,
pesticides are commonly stored in the living area, within reach of small
children. Storage sheds are often poorly ventilated (high midday temperatures
promote the decomposition of the pesticides); containers are not closed properly
(humidity causes degradation of the active ingredients); labeling and
storage practices are poor (leading to mixups that can have severe consequences,
especially when herbicides are confused with insecticides); expiry
dates are not usually recorded; and unusable pesticides accumulate and in
time their containers corrode and leak making the storage area dangerous.
When applying pesticides, about half of the farmers use higher concentrations
than recommended in the belief that "if a little is good, then a lot must be
better." This practice encourages pest resistance and resurgence problems,
requiring even greater pesticide doses to achieve the desired results.
Reasons for inappropriate use
The problems arising from increased use of agricultural pesticides are critical,
especially when one considers the impact of toxic chemical residues on
humans, animals, and the environment. Difficulties arise from the complex
interaction of many factors:
Pressure to increase yields without the expansion of farmlands;
Poor knowledge and understanding of the proper use and handling of
agropesticides;
Farmers pay no attention to protective measures when spraying
agropesticides;
Farmers do not follow the directions on labels that stipulate an interval
between the last pesticide application and harvest, resulting in contaminated
food crops;
Measures controlling the use of agropesticides are not strict or effective;
Information on pesticides from government agencies seldom reaches
the farmers and the public;
Coordination among government officials, producers, and users is limited;
and
The innate steadfastness of farmers in traditional beliefs makes it difficult
for extension officials to disseminate new knowledge to them.
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