Pesticide Residue: Challenges to
Crop Productivity
Seminar by Alamu Balikis Idowu
Matric No: PSB/2020/1061
Federal University of Oye Ekiti
Department of Plant Science and
Biotechnology
Supervisor: Dr. A.O. Oluwajobi
Introduction
• Definition: Pesticides are substances used to
kill or control pests in agriculture and public
health.
• Historical Note: Rachel Carson’s Silent Spring
raised initial awareness of pesticide dangers in
1962.
• Types: Insecticides, herbicides, fungicides, etc.
Global Use and Impacts
• Global statistics: 25% of pesticide use occurs in
developing countries.
• contributing to 99% of deaths related to
pesticide exposure.
• Consequences: Unsafe practices and weak
regulations lead to health risks and
environmental damage.
Pesticide Residue: Definition and Concerns
• Trace amounts of pesticides remaining
on crops post-application.
• Persistent Chemicals: DDT, BHC, and their
long-term effects on soil and human
health.
Impact on Human Health
• Exposure routes: Inhalation, ingestion,
skin contact.
• Health Effects: Neurological disorders,
cancer, hormonal disruptions.
• Statistics: WHO reports ~3 million cases
of pesticide poisoning annually, with
220,000 deaths.
Environmental Impacts
• Contamination of soil, water, and air
through pesticide use.
• Effects on non-target organisms:
Pollinators, birds, and aquatic life
affected by pesticide drift and runoff.
Case Studies on Residue Accumulation
• Example: Pesticide residue findings in
Amaranthus viridis in Ekiti State.
• Bioaccumulation: Pesticides build up
in the food chain.
• It impact higher organisms, including
humans.
Economic and Agricultural Benefits of
Pesticides
• Benefits: Higher crop yields, reduced
pest-related damage, economic
advantages for farmers.
• Contribution to food security through
reduced crop loss (estimated 40% loss
without pesticides).
Challenges and Risks
• Pesticide misuse and resistance
development.
• Long-lasting environmental impact and
the illegal use of banned substances.
• Weak regulatory systems exacerbate
these issues.
Pesticide Regulation and Bans
• Examples: Nigeria's banned
pesticides, such as DDT and Aldrin.
• Importance of adhering to
international standards and local
regulations.
Sustainable Alternatives
• Integrated Pest Management (IPM):
Combines biological, cultural, and
physical controls.
• Bio-pesticides and indigenous pest
control methods (e.g., neem extract).
• Encourages reducing chemical
dependence for sustainability.
Recommendations for Better Management
• Strengthen pesticide regulations and
enforcement.
• Promote farmer education and
awareness of safe pesticide use.
• Encourage research into eco-friendly
pest control solutions.
Conclusion and References
• Conclusion: Emphasize balancing
productivity and environmental
safety.
• Call to action: Adoption of
sustainable practices.
• References: Cite sources from the
seminar document for further
credibility.
THANK YOU
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