Environmental risk assessment of pesticides currently applied in Ghana

Abstract

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Agrochemicals Use Practices and Health Challenges of Smallholder Farmers in Ghana

“…This confirms the earlier studies in Ghana. 12 , 21 , 69 However, the majority of the smallholder farmers do not have access to extension services 1 , 17 and the majority of agrochemical dealers are not trained chemists. 12 Hence, their advice is based on their personal experience, intuition, or sometimes conjecture.…”

“… 16 However, the use of agrochemicals in subsistence farming is increasing in Africa, 17 , 18 which is orchestrated by continuous promotion of agrochemicals in Africa by corporations. 19 , 20 Onwona-Kwakey et al 21 found that food crop farmers in Ghana used agrochemicals at a rate of 1.3 to 13 times higher than the recommended doses. Overdose application of pesticide is also reported among vegetable farmers in Tanzania 22 and among smallholder farmers in Ghana.…”

“…11 , 24 Data from the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) in Ghana indicates 540 varieties of chemicals have been registered for use in agriculture and public health. 21 , 25 Studies show between 70% and 85% of farmers in Ghana use agrochemicals 1 , 2 , 21 and usage is high among vegetable and cash crops farmers. 11 , 21 The increased use of agrochemicals by farmers with limited knowledge in safety precautions and lack of Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) raise concerns among health experts and the general public.…”

“… 21 , 25 Studies show between 70% and 85% of farmers in Ghana use agrochemicals 1 , 2 , 21 and usage is high among vegetable and cash crops farmers. 11 , 21 The increased use of agrochemicals by farmers with limited knowledge in safety precautions and lack of Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) raise concerns among health experts and the general public. There is a call for the relevant authorities to monitor the impact of agrochemicals used in Ghana.…”

“…Several other factors, including the emergence of new pests and diseases, a desire for higher yields, larger farm sizes, and environmental challenges account for increased use of agrochemicals. 2 , 21 , 28 That said, agrochemical use depends on specific geographical location, individual farmers’ decisions, and the ability and accessibility of the agrochemicals. It is reported that pest and disease outbreak can decrease crop yield by 40%.…”