Assessment of phytosanitary practices on the environment: case study potato of Loukkos (northwest Morocco)

Abbou, Mohamed; Chabbi, Mohamed; Benicha, M.

doi:10.1007/s10661-023-10949-9

Cited by 2 publications

(1 citation statement)

References 46 publications

(37 reference statements)

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“…Despite all these advantages, vegetable crops are strongly affected by abiotic and biotic factors such as soil infertility, unfavorable climatic conditions [4], pests, diseases, and weeds [5]. Producers use large quantities of synthetic chemical pesticides to control the phytosanitary problems of vegetable crops [6,7]. According to a survey conducted in the area of Souss Massa (Morocco) in 2012 [8], eight pesticide residues were found in greenhouse tomato samples, including endosulfan, which is in excess of and exceeds the European MRL standards, and was classified as a persistent organic pollutant (POP) and banned by the Stockholm Convention in 2011 [9].…”

Section: Introductionmentioning

confidence: 99%

Towards Sustainable Vegetable Farming: Exploring Agroecological Alternatives to Chemical Products in the Fez-Meknes Region of Morocco

et al. 2023

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The use of excessive chemicals in agriculture can cause harm to the environment and human health. Sustainable agriculture systems promote agroecological practices to reduce chemical use and promote environmental and human health. However, there is a lack of data on the status of chemical use and the adoption of agroecological practices in the Fez-Meknes region, which is a significant national vegetable production area. To address this gap, we conducted cross-sectional surveys with 603 farmers to analyze their practices, behaviors, and knowledge regarding chemical and bio-product use, as well as the risks to crops, health, and the environment. Additionally, we aimed to diagnose the diffusion of agroecological practices and identify the most relevant obstacles and motivations for adoption. Our results indicate that a majority of farmers (95%) use chemicals throughout the production process but lack a good understanding of their use and associated risks. However, farmers do have access to alternative practices such as crop rotation (99.67%), manure (96.35%), drip irrigation (74.46%), and intercropping (69%). The success of these practices among farmers was a significant motivation for their adoption (50%), whereas the difficulties of managing pests and diseases without pesticides (73.2%) and the lack of technical advice and support (70.8%) were the main barriers to adoption. In conclusion, our study highlights the need for training and financial encouragement from the state to promote healthy and eco-friendly farming practices. This research provides valuable insights into the current status of chemical use and the adoption of agroecological practices in the Fez-Meknes region, which can inform policy decisions and promote sustainable agriculture practices for the future.

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