in less developed countries, pesticides are typically applied by hand, whereas pesticides are typically applied by tractors or aircraft in more developed countries. which of the following best explains the risks associated with pesticide applications?
The risks associated with pesticide applications can be explained by several factors:
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Exposure to Pesticides: Pesticides, by their nature, carry inherent risks to human health and the environment. When pesticides are applied by hand in less developed countries, there is a higher likelihood of direct contact and exposure to the chemicals for the individuals applying them. This can lead to acute or chronic health issues for the workers.
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Improper Handling and Application: In less developed countries where pesticides are applied manually, there may be inadequate training and knowledge about proper handling and application techniques. This increases the risk of incorrect dosage, over-application, or contamination of non-target areas such as water sources or neighboring crops.
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Lack of Protective Measures: The use of tractors or aircraft for pesticide application in more developed countries allows for greater efficiency and reduced direct exposure to the chemicals for workers. These methods often include enclosed cabs or specialized equipment that minimize contact. In contrast, the manual application in less developed countries may lack such protective measures, further increasing the risks for those involved.
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Environmental Impact: Pesticides can have unintended consequences on the environment, such as soil and water contamination, loss of biodiversity, and harm to non-target organisms. The use of tractors or aircraft in more developed countries can facilitate more precise targeting of the pesticide, minimizing the overall environmental impact compared to manual application.
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Regulatory and Safety Measures: More developed countries generally have more stringent regulations and safety measures in place for pesticide use. This includes proper licensing, training programs, safety equipment requirements, and monitoring systems. In less developed countries, these regulatory and safety measures may be less comprehensive or not consistently enforced, increasing the risks associated with pesticide applications.
It’s important to note that while the risks associated with pesticide applications exist, pesticides also play a crucial role in protecting crops and ensuring food security. The key lies in the responsible and judicious use of pesticides, integrating alternative pest management strategies, and promoting sustainable agricultural practices.