The Growing Human Population and Pesticides

reason instead of false perceptions and hysteria. Any rational approach to pesticide use should include a risk-benefit comparison. Pesticides, by nature, are risky, but their benefits are real and easily taken for granted. For example, some people want a total ban of pesticides, but they must be ready to accept termites in their houses, fleas in their carpets, moldy vegetables, food-borne toxins, food shortages with soaring prices, and outbreaks of long-forgotten diseases. But what about the risks of pesticides? Pesticides are poisons and can be hazardous. Fortunately, research, education, and government agencies are constantly reducing the risk of using pesticides by producing “safer” chemicals, pest-specific pesticides, better application methods, and tougher pesticide laws. The result is a constantly improving risk-benefit ratio. But that does not mean the job is complete. Misuse of and accidents involving pesticides still occur. And even when used correctly, some pesticides can harm the environment and non-targeted living things. Just as the benefits of pesticides are real, so are the risks. There will always be room for improved pest control methods. The purpose of this publication is to explain the nature of pesticides, their history, their benefits, their risks, the regulations in place to ensure their responsible use, and current trends in their use.