Pesticide use and implications for food security

Abstract

Oksana Datsko*, Marek Jelinek, Vitalii Kovalenko, Yevheniia Butenko, Natalia Kravchenko, Maksym Hnitetskyi, Roman Bordun, Viktor Demenko, Lyudmyla Kriuchko, Roman Badzym

Pesticides play a vital role in modern agriculture by protecting crops from pests, diseases, and weeds, thus ensuring high productivity. However, their extensive use poses significant risks to environmental health, including soil and water pollution, loss of biodiversity, and adverse effects on pollinators like bees. Human health is also impacted, with potential links to chronic and oncological diseases. This study examines pesticide usage in Switzerland, highlighting public concerns and initiatives to limit their use. Although proposals to ban synthetic pesticides have faced resistance, the Swiss government has introduced measures to mitigate associated risks. Alternative pest management strategies, such as organic farming and preventive methods, are explored, alongside advancements like the SYNOPS model for predicting pesticide concentrations in water. The research underscores the need for safer pesticide formulations and robust regulatory frameworks to balance agricultural productivity with environmental sustainability. Despite progress, challenges remain, including cross-contamination and food security risks. Switzerland's efforts reflect a broader move toward sustainable agriculture, providing insights for other nations striving to reduce pesticide dependency.