Pesticide

Pesticide

Definition of Pesticide

A pesticide is a substance or mixture of substances used to prevent, control, repel, or destroy organisms that threaten crops, livestock, stored products, or human health. In agriculture, pesticides are applied to manage weeds, insects, fungi, and other pests that reduce yield, quality, or safety of food production systems.

Pesticides include a broad range of products such as herbicides, insecticides, fungicides, and biological pesticides, and they may be derived from synthetic or natural sources. Their use is governed by regulatory frameworks designed to balance effectiveness with environmental and health protection.

Why Pesticides Matter

Pesticides matter because they play a central role in protecting agricultural productivity and food security, while also requiring responsible management. Key considerations include:

• Reducing crop losses caused by pests, diseases, and weeds

• Maintaining food quality and safety throughout production and storage

• Supporting large-scale and commercial farming systems

• Public health protection through control of disease vectors

• Environmental and resistance risks if misused or overused

Modern agriculture increasingly emphasises integrated and targeted pesticide use to minimise negative impacts while maintaining effective pest control.

Key Principles of Pesticide Use

• Correct Identification – Targeting the specific pest or disease present

• Appropriate Product Selection – Choosing pesticides with suitable modes of action

• Timing and Dosage – Applying at optimal stages to maximise effectiveness

• Integration with IPM – Combining chemical control with biological and cultural practices

• Environmental Stewardship – Protecting non-target species, water, and soil

• Resistance Management – Rotating products and limiting repeated use

• Regulatory Compliance – Following legal requirements, safety standards, and label instructions

Related Terms

• Herbicides

• Insecticides

• Fungicides

• Biocontrol

• Integrated Pest Management (IPM)

• Crop Protection

Useful Resources on Pesticides

Explore these authoritative resources to learn more about pesticides, pest control strategies, and sustainable use:

• FAO – Pesticide Management and IPM – Global guidance on pesticide regulation and integrated pest management.

• WHO – Pesticide Safety and Health – Information on pesticide exposure, safety, and public health considerations.

• USDA – Pesticide Regulation and Research – Research and policy guidance on pesticide use in agriculture.

• CABI – Pesticide and Pest Management Resources – Technical knowledge on pesticide modes of action and alternatives.

• Our World in Data – Pesticide Use and Impacts – Data-driven insights into pesticide use trends and environmental effects.

• AGRIS – Pesticide Research Database – Peer-reviewed scientific literature on pesticide efficacy and risk management.

• European Commission – Sustainable Use of Pesticides – EU policy frameworks and regulatory guidance.

• DEFRA – Pesticide Policy and Guidance (UK) – Official UK guidance on pesticide approval and safe use.

• International Code of Conduct on Pesticide Management (FAO/WHO) – Global standards for responsible pesticide use.

• European Environment Agency - News, publications, maps, charts on date on pesticides.