Jun 2026· Journal of Applied Horticulture· Vol 28· 0 citations
Abstract
The Bogofa commune is becoming a dynamic area for market-oriented vegetable production with farmers who use synthetic pesticides. However, synthetic pesticides threaten both the environment and consumer health. There is growing interest in assessing pesticide-use practices among local farmers to raise awareness and promote the safe, responsible, and appropriate use of pesticides in agricultural production. An exploratory survey was conducted from August 2023 to September 2023 to evaluate commercial garden systems in the Bogofa community and determine which commercial garden areas were most representative. The Bogofa community was selected as it drastically increased vegetable production due to significant barriers associated with safe pesticide usage. A sample of 58 farmers was selected based on the amount of production using hectares as a measurement to complete the analysis through Statistica Version 12.5. The plants produced most commonly were tomatoes, peppers, eggplant, cabbage, and cucumbers (94.83 %). Additionally, approximately 11 pesticides from the Directorate of Plant Protection, Control, and Quality (Class II) are available to vegetable farmers, which contain K-Optimal 35 EC (Lambda-cyhalothrin and Acetamiprid) and Decis Forte 100 EC (Deltamethrin) that put them at risk due to their lack of Personal Protective Equipment (94.83 %) and reliance on their regular clothing (91.38 %) and 91.38 % of purchasing pesticides from farmer vendors in local retail outlets. Storage methods vary little; they store them at home-46.55 %-in field shelters-27.59 %-or storage facilities-25.86 %. Moreover, 37.93 % dispose of their remaining pesticide mixes in farms or storage facilities. Of the rest, 27.59 % discarded any unused mixed pesticides along with their empty containers and other debris collected from their farms. Farmers commonly burned empty containers (44.83 %), leave them in the field (39.66 %), or reuse them somewhere else (3.45 %). All these practices combined will increase the amount of leftover pesticide residue on farms, making consumers may increase the risk of environmental contamination and dietary exposure. The findings demonstrate an urgent need for formal training in pesticide selection, application, personal protection, storage, and container disposal.
In Bangladesh, pesticides are frequently used in vegetable production to control pests and diseases with little consideration of their impact on the environment and human health, and their use remains largely uncontrolled despite the existence of several pesticide control rules and regulations. Against this backdrop, the study examined traditional practices, knowledge, behavior, and propensity for pesticide usage, as well as the impact of these chemicals on farmers' health and the environment. Data were collected through a questionnaire survey, Focus Group Discussions (FGDs), and Key Informant Interviews (KIIs) in the study villages. The health impact was illustrated through graphical presentations generated using the Statistical Package for the Social Sciences (SPSS), while a likelihood ratio test was used to examine links between health problems and factors such as pesticide use frequency, training level, education, and protective coverings. Results indicate that 60% of farmers apply pesticides, insecticides, and fungicides daily or weekly without necessary protective measures, and 68% rely on personal experience and fellow farmers' advice rather than Bangladesh guidelines. Harvesting often occurs within 2-5 days of pesticide application, especially for vegetables like long beans and eggplant, leading to health issues including gastric problems, headaches, nausea, skin problems, and diarrhea. Over-pesticide use also adversely affects the environment, depleting soil fertility and contaminating water. Addressing these challenges requires strengthening farmer training and awareness programs, including community-based initiatives such as Uthan Boithok, and promoting organic and sustainable farming practices that encourage the safe use of pesticides while safeguarding both farmer health and the environment.
Muhammad Hassan, Md. Jahan Boksh, Ummey Kulsum et al.· Bangladesh Journal of Admini...· 0 citations
Pesticides remain central to crop protection and agricultural productivity, but inappropriate application practices may increase environmental and occupational risks. This study provides an integrated assessment of phytosanitary practices, soil physicochemical quality patterns, and Tier 1 environmental risk in pesticide-treated agricultural fields of western Algeria. A semi-structured survey was conducted in 70 agricultural fields across Oran, Mostaganem, Ain Temouchent, and Saida to document pesticide use patterns, active ingredients, treated crops, dose compliance, and safety practices. Soil physicochemical properties were assessed in 20 pesticide-treated plots and 20 corresponding untreated control samples. For each plot, one composite soil sample of approximately 1 kg was obtained from the 0-40 cm layer by pooling six subsamples collected along a complete zigzag transect. Tier 1 environmental risk was evaluated by estimating predicted environmental concentrations (PEC soil) and chronic toxicity-exposure ratios (TER) following EFSA guidance and the FAO Pesticide Registration Toolkit. Soil data were analyzed using descriptive statistics, paired treated-control comparisons, Shapiro-Wilk normality tests, paired t-tests or Wilcoxon signed-rank tests as appropriate, false discovery rate adjustment, Spearman correlation, and standardized principal component analysis. The survey showed a predominance of insecticides and fungicides, frequent noncompliance with recommended application rates, and limited use of personal protective equipment. Compared with the corresponding controls, treated soils showed significantly lower moisture and organic matter, higher pH, and lower silt content after FDR correction, whereas electrical conductivity, carbonate variables, available phosphorus, clay, and sand did not show robust paired differences. Multivariate analysis separated samples mainly according to moisture, pH, organic matter, carbonate status, texture, and available phosphorus. The Tier 1 assessment identified sites with potential chronic risk requiring further refinement or risk mitigation. These findings provide a regional baseline on phytosanitary practices, soil physicochemical patterns, and screening-level environmental risk in western Algerian agroecosystems.
Hiba Hamal, Yamina Merzouk, Amina Zergui et al.· Journal of Environmental Sci...· 0 citations
Modern agriculture is highly dependent on the use of pesticides to maintain productivity. However, the inappropriate management of these substances generates serious occupational, environmental, and public health risks, demanding compliance with regulations such as NR-31 and Law no. 9,974/2000, aligned with the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) of the UN 2030 Agenda. This study aimed to map the socioeconomic profile and analyze the pesticide management practices, use of Personal Protective Equipment (PPE), and waste disposal of rural producers in Viçosa-MG. The methodology consisted of an exploratory and descriptive research with a mixed approach, in which 15 structured interviews were conducted with farmers affiliated with the local Rural Producers Union, with a minimum of five years of field experience. The data were processed through descriptive statistics and content analysis. The results revealed a profile marked by aging (average of 49.8 years), long periods of labor activity, and low family income (66.7% subsist on up to 2 minimum wages). A polarization in formal education was observed, with 33.3% holding a university degree, although higher education did not translate into greater prevention. Only 40% of active users utilize the complete Agrochemical Kit, 70% perform reverse logistics for empty containers, and 30% still persist in illegal practices of burning or burying waste. In conclusion, there is a regulatory asymmetry in the region, highlighting the urgency of strengthening rural extension networks and continuous training to mitigate risks and consolidate a culture of prevention in the field.
Carlos David Cacemiro, L. Nascimento, Márcia Teixeira Cavalcanti et al.· ARACÊ· 0 citations
This study examined the demographic characteristics of farmers and their knowledge, attitudes, and practices regarding biological pest control and chemical pesticide use. The findings showed that farmers aged 55–65 years represented 53.3% of the sample, while 53.3% had low educational attainment, being either illiterate or having only primary education. All participants owned small farms (2–10 dunums) and had 5–25 years of farming experience, reflecting a predominantly traditional production system. Although 86.7% of farmers were familiar with the concept of biological control, 66.7% had never applied it, and 86.7% questioned its effectiveness. In contrast, 74.7% recognized its environmental value, 73.3% were willing to receive training, and 88.7% considered it economically beneficial, indicating potential for wider adoption if practical support is provided. The study also found a strong dependence on chemical pesticides. About 80% of farmers relied on pesticides as their primary pest management method, while 73.3% applied them without professional consultation. Nearly half (46.7%) did not follow recommended application rates, and 73.4% reported repeated or excessive use. Rapid effectiveness (86.7%) and limited access to alternatives (89.3%) were the main reasons for continued reliance on chemical pesticides. Health and environmental findings showed that 46.7% of farmers experienced pesticide-related health symptoms, and 53.3% did not use personal protective equipment despite universal awareness of pesticide health risks. Most respondents also recognized the negative effects of pesticides on soil (85.3%) and water resources (80%). The study concludes that low educational level, aging farmers, small landholdings, and limited agricultural extension services restrict the adoption of biological control. Expanding field extension programs, practical training, and access to biological alternatives would encourage sustainable pest management and reduce dependence on chemical pesticides.
Unknown authors· European Journal of Ecology,...· 0 citations
Background: The excessive use of synthetic pesticides and chemical fertilizers in conventional agriculture has led to environmental degradation, soil health deterioration, and potential health risks for farmers and consumers. This study aims to evaluate the effectiveness of sustainable agriculture approaches in reducing farmers' dependence on these chemical inputs while maintaining agricultural productivity and economic viability. Methods: This research employed a mixed-methods approach combining quantitative field experiments and qualitative in-depth interviews. The study was conducted during the summer on various Flos Hidroponik farm plots in Temanggung Regency, Central Java, Indonesia, which implement various sustainable practices including integrated pest management (IPM), organic fertilization, crop rotation, cover cropping, and biological pest control. Data collection involved soil health assessments, yield measurements, input usage tracking, and structured interviews with participating farmers to assess adoption rates, challenges, and perceived benefits. Findings: The implementation of sustainable agriculture approaches resulted in a significant reduction in pesticide use by 85% and chemical fertilizer application by 70% compared to conventional farming practices. Integrated pest management showed the highest effectiveness, reducing pesticide dependence by 85% while maintaining crop yields at 80% of conventional levels. Farmer adoption rates varied, with 90% of farmers continuing sustainable practices after the study period, citing improved soil health, reduced input costs, and enhanced crop resilience as primary motivating factors amid. Conclusion: Sustainable agriculture approaches demonstrate substantial potential for reducing farmers' dependence on pesticides and chemical fertilizers without compromising agricultural productivity. Novelty/Originality of this article: The novelty of this study lies in the integrated evaluation of multiple sustainable agriculture practices and their combined effects on chemical input reduction, agricultural productivity, and farmer adoption in a real-world farming context.
Hutomo Danu Saputro· Holistic: Journal of Tropica...· 0 citations
Good agricultural practices are defined as a production method encompassing all production and marketing stages, from soil to table. Before making a decision, the crops or agricultural activities previously grown in the production area should be known and their impacts on human health and the environment should be evaluated. If there are risks that cannot be controlled, these areas should not be used for good agricultural practices. In order to protect soil health, reduce dependence on pesticides and maximize plant health, rotational production should be practiced. Studies on this production system, which prioritizes human and environmental health in hazelnut, are extremely limited. Therefore, this study was carried out to reveal the difference between good agricultural and conventional practices in hazelnut. In order to achieve this objective; moisture, total lipid, protein, carbohydrate, ash, energy value, and sterol composition of hazelnut oil were investigated. Effects of cultural practices on hazelnut chemical composition were generally found to be significant (p˂ 0.01). Total lipid, cholesterol, 5-23 stigmastadienol, 7-avenasterol, sitosterol, and ∆5-avenasterol were higher in good agricultural practices than in the conventional practices. Consequently, based on present findings that there will be great benefits in widespread of good agricultural practices in terms of human and environmental health.
Ali Turan· Karadeniz Fen Bilimleri Derg...· 0 citations
