Pesticiden

Pesticiden are substances or mixtures used to prevent, destroy, repel, or mitigate pests that attack crops, animals, or human dwellings. They include several major classes: herbicides target plants that compete with crops; insecticides kill or deter insects; fungicides combat fungal diseases; rodenticides control rodents; miticides or nematicides target mites and nematodes. Biopesticiden use natural materials or microorganisms.

Applications include spraying on crops, applying to soil, seed treatments, fumigation, or stored-product protection. Many pesticides act chemically, others biologically or through behavioral interference. Persistence in the environment varies; some degrade quickly, others remain for months or years and can reach water bodies or accumulate in ecosystems. Exposure can occur through drift, residues in food, or occupational handling.

Safety and regulation: most countries regulate pesticide approval, labeling, usage limits, and residue standards. Proper storage, handling, PPE, and rotation of products are advised to reduce resistance and non-target effects. Integrated Pest Management emphasizes combining cultural, biological, and chemical methods to minimize reliance on pesticiden.

Health and environmental considerations: improper use can affect human health, pollinators, aquatic organisms, and biodiversity; resistance can develop in pest populations. Environmental safeguards, monitoring, and ongoing review help mitigate risks. Alternatives include crop rotation, resistant varieties, biological control, and regulatory measures to phase out highly hazardous substances.

Global context: pesticiden use is widespread in agriculture but subject to national quotas, export/import regulations, and safety standards. Public health, food security, and environmental protection debates shape policy and practice.