Inglês — Análise e classificação de sementes

Text LE-I questions – 6 to 8

Quite separate from the POPs (persistent organic pollutants) agenda is the problem of pesticide use in developing countries and

countries with economies in transition. The history of pesticide abuse is legend. The environment, water quality, and public health

consequences are well known. While the Prior Informed Consent programme of FAO (Food and Agriculture Organization of the

United Nations) and IRPTC (International Register of Potentially Toxic Chemicals) is an important step, the abuse and misuse of

agricultural chemicals remains a major problem in many countries, especially in Latin America, Asia and Eastern Europe. There are

no easy answers or recommendations, however the issue is so important both for public health and the environment, with large off-site

economic costs, that FAO needs to develop a specific action plan in the field of pesticide use. The action plan needs to include

assessment, education, demonstration, chemical replacement, storage and destruction.

Actions by national governments, such as reduction or elimination of price subsidies, can have significant beneficial effects

through reduced pesticide use. Combined with training in integrated pest management, reduced pesticide use can achieve both

ecological (including water quality) and economic advantages at the local level.

Internet: . Access: Oct. 8/2001 (with adaptations).

From text LE-I, it can be concluded that

training in pesticide use combined with the elimination of price subsides can result in economic and ecological improvements.