Pesticides and the Environment (original) (raw)

It should be obvious, even to the most casual observer, that man must better understand the environment in which he lives. He must learn to use his resources wisely and intelligently. And this does not imply either a need or recommendation that the use of resources or the application of the latest technology be drastically curtailed. Advent of new organic pesticides in the early 1940's truly opened a new era in pest control. For the first time man was partially successful in ma nipulating his environment insofar as his ability to control insects, weeds, diseases and rodents is con cerned. Pest control has become a real and serious matter that has a direct impact on each and every one of us. Our society has gained tremendous bene fits from the use of pesticides by protecting us and our possessions from the ravages of pests. These chemicals will continue to be used in pest manage ment in spite of the adverse publicity concerning their detrimental effects on the environment. The great controversy over the use of pesti cides comes at a time when most people enjoy the highest standard of living ever known. Much of this can be attributed to the use of pesticides in the production of food and fiber, and disease con trol. Pesticidal residues and persistence seem to be the key words in discussing pesticides and the en vironment. The residue problem will always con front us when we use toxic chemicals having any degree of persistence. However, this problem is being greatly diminished through proper selection and application of pesticides. Persistence of a pesti cide is not in itself an undesirable quality, but it can become a problem, especially when it finds its way into non-target areas. Once this happens, a pesticide can become harmful to non-pest plants and animals. Furthermore, through continual exposure and repeated use some pesticides can accumulate in the environment in amounts that are detectable by. precision instruments. There are documented cases