The Harmful Effects of Chemical Fertilizers and Pesticides
What are the factors that contribute to climate change? Cars, trucks, airplanes, factory gases, and power plants, are all answers we think of. These are correct, but our farming culture is the most overlooked source of global warming.
“Agriculture is responsible for an estimated one-third of emissions that contribute to global warming and climate change. It is generally agreed that about 25 percent of the main greenhouse gas — carbon dioxide -— is produced by agricultural pesticides and chemicals.”— The Rise and Predictable Fall of Globalized Industrial Agriculture
Farmers use pesticides and chemical fertilizers on crops to produce pest-free food efficiently in large quantities. Their widespread use carries negative effects on the health of families and the environment.
Let’s take a closer look at the consequences and possible solutions.
Symptoms of Pesticide Exposure
The specific effects of pesticides depend on the type of pesticide used (ex: Roundup), the chemicals included in it, how often it is used, and the duration of exposure. Read more here.
Pesticide exposure can lead to:
- Irritation of the nose, throat, eyes, or skin
- Headache
- Thirst
- Dizziness
- Sweating
- Nausea
- Diarrhea
- Loss of appetite
- Weakness or fatigue
They may come immediately after exposure, but some may only show after a few hours and others may even appear years later.
Chemical fertilizers provide more and higher-quality food in the short term, but they are damaging the soil in the long run, resulting in fewer and lower-quality foods.
How Chemical Fertilizers Damage the Environment
Chemical fertilizers seep into the soil and harm groundwater and other water sources, causing an environmental imbalance. Nitrogen, for example, generates a “dead zone.” This means it promotes the rapid growth of plankton and other aquatic plants. As these plants decompose, they remove the oxygen in the water that fish and other marine species need to survive.
The greenhouse effect is another negative consequence of nitrogen. It contributes to global warming in the same way carbon dioxide does. Power plants and automobiles produce nitrous oxide, which is the principal source of nitrogen. Nitrogen remains in the water for several years, harming the ecosystem even if damaged regions stop the use of chemical fertilizers.
Alternatives to Food Treated with Chemicals and Pesticides
Here are some ways to take back your health and help the environment when it comes to food practices:
- Support local farmers
Local farmers usually grow organic produce and avoid using chemical fertilizers or pesticides. Buying from them is a good alternative to grocery chains.
- Grow your own food
Growing your own vegetables and fruit is the best option for the environment. If you have the time, space, and resources, give this a try. You and your family will eat healthier meals and experience many positive effects.
Conclusion
As food demand increases over supply, fertilizers and pesticides won’t go away anytime soon. Their widespread use continues to cause irreversible damage to the environment.
At Green Schools Green Future, we have developed a curriculum to teach children to grow vegetables and fruits in sustainable ways. We encourage them to be eco-conscious and explore ways they can help protect our planet.
Sources:
https://www.ccohs.ca/oshanswers/chemicals/pesticides/health_effects.html
https://eponline.com/Articles/2017/12/07/The-Hidden-Dangers-of-Chemical-Fertilizers.aspx?Page=3
https://www.permaculturenews.org/2008/11/13/chemical-based-farming-systems-robbing-us-of-nutrients/
https://laws-lois.justice.gc.ca/eng/regulations/c.r.c.,_c._666/FullText.html
