Effect of Pesticides on Human Health and Biodiversity: A Comprehensive Insight

Abstract

Pesticides, whether naturally occurring or chemically synthesized, serve to combat various pests across sectors such as food production, forestry, agriculture, and aquaculture, but they also pose risks of toxicity to ecosystems. The World Health Organization classifies pesticides based on their harmful effects, underscoring the importance of public health considerations. By employing them judiciously and understanding their categorization, their usage can be minimized for the benefit of both human health and the environment. This review examines global perspectives on pesticides, including their distribution and environmental impacts, while literature highlights their potential uses, classification and adverse effects on natural systems, water, plants, human health and food preservation. Additionally, eco-friendly management strategies, like bacterial degradation, myco-remediation, phytoremediation, and microalgae-based bioremediation, are discussed as green solutions to mitigate pesticide pollution. The identification of potent microbes, novel genes and biotechnological applications for pesticide waste management is crucial for fostering a sustainable environment.