Overuse of chemical fertilizers and pesticides in agriculture is responsible for serious health conditions in consumers and farmers. It also damages the soil and contributes to pollution of environment.
In Bangladesh, farmers use excessive amount of chemical fertilizers and pesticides in vegetable cultivation in order to get a better yield. The pesticides then find their way into the stomach of consumers leading to diseases such as lung cancer and skin disorders.
Due to overuse of pesticides, vegetables nowadays contain excess amount of chemical substances such as zinc, cadmium and potassium which are detrimental to human health. Consumed in large quantities, these chemicals can lead to lung cancer, psoriasis and metabolic disorders.
Moreover, the excessive use of pesticides and fertilizers is also ruining farmland and can lead to soil becoming infertile. If the use of these chemicals continues unchecked, it could lead to food shortages as arable land will decrease significantly.
Use of pesticide kills beneficial organisms alongside pests that destroy crops. Of all the insects found on or near crops, only 38 percent are harmful. The rest are needed to protect the crops from harmful insects. Using pesticides indiscriminately damages the delicate balance of organisms that live on farmland.
Farmers must be encouraged to cultivate
vegetables in an organic way, which will be
beneficial to both the
farmers and the consumers
Farmers must be encouraged to cultivate vegetables in an organic way, which will be beneficial to both the farmers and the consumers. Many of them do not follow safety precautions and use pesticides without facemasks or gloves. As a result they are exposed to harmful chemicals which easily enter their system. They must be made aware of the health risks associated with long term exposure to pesticides and fertilizers.
The pesticide and fertilizer distribution system should also be regulated. Moreover, authorities concerned should monitor how much pesticide is being used in vegetable production. Food grade safety must be maintained and any produce which exceeds the prescribed limit for pesticide must be taken off the market. Authorities should provide training to farmers on safe vegetable farming. Food safety is a top priority in order to ensure consumers’ wellbeing.