Levantamento do Uso de Agrotóxicos: Estudo de Caso em uma Comunidade Rural no Município de Presidente Figueiredo-AM

Abstract

Although agriculture has been practiced by mankind for over 10,000 years, the intensive use of pesticides to control crop pests and diseases has existed for just over half a century. This study aims to analyze the use of pesticides in the rural community of Boa Esperança, located in the municipality of Presidente Figueiredo-AM. The research is a case study with a qualitative and quantitative approach, using information provided by the Working Group (WG) Pesticides Committee. A sample of 100 questionnaires was applied to profile the sociodemographic characteristics of the population, identify the most commonly used pesticides, and survey the environmental exposure characteristics. The results showed that 95% of the properties are agricultural, 67% of the pesticides used are classified as extremely toxic to humans, and 55% as very hazardous to the environment. Additionally, 8% of the population reported confirmed medical symptoms due to pesticide use, while 38% suspected symptoms related to pesticide exposure. Regarding environmental exposure, 1% of respondents confirmed contamination, and 34% suspected contamination. It is concluded that 79% of the properties have some type of watercourse, exposing these water resources to the pesticides used in the region.