A well-known Brazilian scientist and advocate for sustainable trade, Dr. Ferrante is at the forefront of international debate, raising these pressing concerns so that Brazil is consistent with global standards for trade and environmental management.
Ferrante said Ecologist: “Bill 1833/2023 represents a threat to Mato Grosso’s own agriculture by allowing pesticides to be applied without respecting appropriate safe zones.
“Measurements were performed on pesticide spray area without a safe distance and observed extinction, mutations and abnormalities. These effects indicate that a minimum safe distance of 300 meters is required.”
Prohibited
The impact of pesticides on wildlife is not only a concern for researchers, but is also recognized by the industry. Syngenta, its formula Websiteacknowledges that pesticides contribute to the reduction in pollinators.
Syngenta points out that “75% of crops intended for human consumption depend on bees,” and that “they are the most important pollinators on the planet.
“In addition to allowing plants to grow, pollination increases crop productivity levels, leading to higher quality fruits and more seeds.”
company I’ll point it out “The disappearance of bees and other pollinators could eliminate crops such as melons, watermelons and passionfruit,” highlighting that the decline in pollinators due to the use of pesticides in sensitive areas directly threatens agriculture productivity and food security.
Approximately 80% of pesticides Approved In Brazil, it is prohibited in at least three countries within the European Community’s Economic Co-operation and Development Organization (OECD).
Protective measures
On average, each Brazilian consumes 7 liters of pesticides each year. This is an incredible figure that has been linked to 70,000 cases of both acute and chronic addiction reported nationwide. This surprising statistics are highlighted in a related document compiled by the Brazilian Public Health Association (Abrasco).
The proposed Bill 1833/2023 not only dismisses robust scientific evidence, but also puts public health at risk by jeopardizing the sustainability of Mato Grosso’s agriculture and amplifying the potential for widespread pesticide contamination.
Ferrante may warn of risks associated with this new bill, highlighting its potential implications: “The approval of the bill indicates a serious regression in environmental and public health protection.
“Country importing Brazilian goods, such as soybeans and other pesticide-dependent agricultural produce, must urgently reevaluate these imports. Environmental dilutions amplify the risk of chemical contamination and violate international food safety standards.”
Brazil will be holding the 30th session (COP30) of the Conference of the Parties (COP30) to the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC) in November this year.
The conference will be held in Belem, the capital of Para, bringing together world leaders, activists, businesses and policymakers to tackle the world’s most urgent environmental challenges, where stakes are at an unprecedented level.
This author
Monica Piccanini Regular contributors of Ecologist and a freelance writer focusing on environmental, health and human rights issues.
