Risks and benefits of insecticide use in cabbage (Brassica oleracea L.) production in Buguias, Benguet, Philippines, 1998
1999
Robles, A.T.
Results of the study showed that farmers mishandled and abused the use of insecticides. Common practices were frequent spraying and short spray interval; tank-mixing of different insecticides; increasing concentration of spray; improper disposal of contaminated wastes; and non-compliance to safety nets. Results also showed that residues in soil, water, air and food material were within safe level, except for agricultural water which surpassed the DENR [Department of Environment and Natural Resources] standards. Drinking water was negative. Despite the safe levels of contaminants, health problems were encountered. These were eye, skin, respiratory, gastro-intestinal, nervous, muscular and cardiovascular disorders. In view of the issues on health and residue levels, the insecticides were evaluated based on their characteristics. A modest scheme to classify insecticides were formulated based on the identified impact in Natubleng. The criteria for classification were enumerated. Risk values used in the proposed classification were the products of the magnitude of the impact and the likelihood of occurrence. Results showed that slightly hazardous insecticides were as high risk as those that were extremely hazardous while some highly hazardous was proposed as moderate risk. Assessment of the financial net return showed that farmers were ensured of financial net benefits with insecticide use. However, the risk to the living and non-living components of the environment as production costs will give a lower economic net return or a negative net economic return
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