Derived from simple sulfur compounds, agrochemicals have become an important part of our modern world. Agrochemicals all strive towards a similar goal of maximizing crop production and improving food quality. Reducing competition, eliminating pests, and minimizing disease are examples of such. This article will talk about the utilization and environmental impact of agrochemicals, and their significance in the modern world.
Utilization:
Agrochemical is an umbrella term used to describe a cluster of chemicals that is mainly used in agriculture. Pesticides and herbicides are typically applied to crops by aerial or ground spraying. Another way to apply these chemicals is to inject them into the irrigation system, delivering the chemicals directly to the roots of the plant. Though effective, this leads to frequent chemical run-offs and effecting non-target organisms and plants.
Consequences:
One example of this is aquatic biomes, which become the main concern when it comes to the effect of pesticides. Many problems with the ecosystem are caused by chemical runoffs into waterways. A chemical called chlorpyrifos (CFS) is a pesticide targeted to kill worms and insects by attacking their nervous system. A research case was done to discuss the consequences when CFS is exposed to an aquatic environment. CFS can interfere with hormone production and has mutagenic effects. In a study on common carp, it was shown that exposure to CFS significantly altered the structure of their gills and liver [2]; which later is consumed by humans, leading to further health concerns.
Expanding on this topic, the World Health Organization states that pesticides have been a leading problem of health problems in humans, though only under a certain level should these pesticides be deemed harmless. Some cases even lead to death by the claim of “self-poisoning" agriculture workers are the population that is mainly affected, and people who are not in contact with agrochemicals are exposed to significantly lower amounts, only receiving the residual amount through food.
Conclusion
The use of agrochemicals, shapes our modern world supplying us with food even through the growing population. The use of pesticides and herbicides enabled us to sufficiently triple our normal food production. However, the consequences of agrochemicals are undeniable, giving rise to many health concerns for agricultural workers, and affecting surrounding ecosystems. Further research should be made to mitigate health effects while ensuring the efficiency of crop production.
References
“Chemigation Guide | USU.” USU Extension Services, https://extension.usu.edu/crops/research/chemigation-guide. Accessed 3 September 2023.
“Chlorpyrifos toxicity in fish: A Review.” Current World Environment, 14 February 2013, https://www.cwejournal.org/vol8no1/chlorpyrifos-toxicity-in-fish-a-review. Accessed 3 September 2023.
The City of Portland Oregon. “Natural and Synthetic Pesticides | Integrated Pest Management - Strategies | The City of Portland, Oregon.” Portland.gov, https://www.portlandoregon.gov/parks/article/92761. Accessed 3 September 2023.
“Impact of pesticides use in agriculture: their benefits and hazards.” NCBI, https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC2984095/. Accessed 3 September 2023.
“Pesticide residues in food.” World Health Organization (WHO), 15 September 2022, https://www.who.int/news-room/fact-sheets/detail/pesticide-residues-in-food. Accessed 3 September 2023.
Sulser, Barbara. “What are Agrochemicals?” CABB Chemicals, 21 April 2021, https://cabb-chemicals.com/what-are-agrochemicals/. Accessed 3 September 2023.
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