IMPACT OF PESTICIDES AND EFFECTS ON ENVIRONMENTAL HEALTH

Abstract

This article analyzes the impacts of pesticide use on the environment and its effects on human health, considering the context of modern agriculture and the intensification of a production model based on chemical inputs. The research is characterized as qualitative, exploratory, and descriptive, developed through a bibliographic review of scientific articles, technical documents, legislation, and institutional publications. The results indicate that the intensive and inappropriate use of pesticides contributes to soil, water, and living organism contamination, as well as biodiversity loss, bioaccumulation, and ecosystem imbalance. Regarding human health, exposure to these substances is associated with acute poisoning and chronic effects, such as neurological diseases, hormonal disorders, respiratory problems, reproductive changes, and increased cancer risk, especially affecting rural workers and vulnerable communities. The study also shows that dependence on pesticides reinforces inequalities in rural areas and compromises the sustainability of production systems. As alternatives, integrated pest management, agroecology, organic farming, and the use of biopesticides stand out. It is concluded that the progressive reduction of pesticide use depends on the coordination of public policies, technical assistance, environmental education, and incentives for more sustainable agricultural practices.