Pesticide use and management in food production: balancing economic and environmental considerations

Issue Date

10-2002

Abstract

This paper highlights the need to increase our agricultural productivity in the light of the continuing increase in our population. To sustain and intensify agricultural production, we must be able to combine good traditional methods and practices with new and practical technologies. Pesticides are recognized as essential input in reducing economic damage due to pests and diseases. The role of crop protection in major crops such as rice, fruits vegetables, export crops like bananas and corn is highlighted. The risks to health, safety and the environment are analyzed against the benefits derived from the use of pesticides in giant Cavendish bananas has not produced any apparent damage to the environment. The development of highly active but very low toxicity compounds is mentioned. The development and use of genetically modified crops with built-in-resistance to certain pests and diseases, such as Bt corn and Bt cotton, is also expected to complement and reduce use of chemicals. The author concludes that risks arising from majority of uses of crop protection products are outweighed by the benefits derived from them, and that risks can be properly managed as long as there is a responsible industry and a working regulatory system in place.

Source or Periodical Title

Philippine Entomologist

ISSN

0048-3753

Volume

16

Issue

2

Page

91-99

Document Type

Article

Frequency

semi-annually

Physical Description

illustrations

Language

English

En – AGROVOC descriptors

PESTICIDES; PLANT PROTECTION; RISK ANALYSIS; CHEMICAL CONTROL

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