Impacts of the use of pesticides under social and environmental conditions in small rural properties: case study in Petrolina, Pernambuco

Abstract

The Vale do São Francisco has stood out as a strong hub responsible for fruit production in Brazil. The implementation of irrigated perimeters, associated with the adoption of field management has been an important factor for the positive performance of fruit growing. In these cases, the use of pesticides is a key factor in maintaining plant health and production. In this sense, the present work aimed to carry out a survey on the impacts of the use of pesticides under socio-environmental conditions in the Irrigated Perimeter Senador Nilo Coelho, nucleus 11, in Petrolina, Pernambuco. To obtain the data, a questionnaire containing 15 questions was prepared, subdivided into 4 topics, namely: 1) Characterization of properties, 2) Characterization of the main pesticides used, 3) Frequency of application of pesticides, 4) Application and protection. The application of the questionnaires took place from visits to the properties, carrying out interviews with the fruit growers. After obtaining the data, the spreadsheet was organized and tabulated in the Microsoft Excel 2021 program and the data was analyzed, showing that the cultivated areas are concentrated in the range of 5 to 10 ha, with orchards aged 5, 1 to 10 years. Insecticides, fungicides, herbicides and acaricides are the most used, in general not very toxic and unlikely to cause damage, but in contrast with environmental classes that pose a risk to the environment. Producers had a good perception of the risks that these products offer, evidenced by the use of private technical assistance, reducing the practice of inappropriate use, with the product being used in the correct measure, without risk to the health of the consumer and the environment.