Title : Comprehensive review of pesticide dynamics: Health effects, environmental movement, and AI-driven mitigation strategies
Abstract:
Pesticides are essential, yet hazardous, chemical or biological agents used to control pests, weeds, and diseases, protecting agricultural productivity. Classified by target organism (Herbicides, Insecticides, Fungicides) and chemical composition (Organochlorines, Organophosphates, Carbamates), their use has shifted historically from elemental compounds to synthetic formulations. The environmental persistence of pesticides, often measured by their half-life, dictates their potential for accumulation, with "Bad Actor" chemicals posing significant risks even years after application. Human exposure occurs primarily through inhalation of spray drift, ingestion of contaminated food/water, and dermal contact, leading to acute intoxication (Nausea, Dizziness) and chronic, long-term health consequences, including cancer, neurodevelopmental issues, and endocrine disruption.
This review examines the dispersal and movement of pesticides through air, soil, and water, noting that drift can affect areas far from the application site, a critical issue for vulnerable communities. In California, the Department of Pesticide Regulation (DPR) monitors these impacts, with significant incidents of high pesticide air concentrations found in the San Joaquin and Salinas valleys, including the use of restricted chemicals near schools and residential areas. Mitigation strategies are essential, involving Integrated Pest Management (IPM), precision application, strict adherence to spray conditions, and technological alternatives to minimize off-site movement.
Consumer health risks are calculated using dietary residue data, ensuring that daily intake does not exceed acceptable limits, though cumulative exposure from multiple pesticides remains a challenge. A case study in precision agriculture shows that applying Artificial Intelligent (AI) resources—specifically machine learning algorithms to identify pest thresholds and drone technology for targeted spraying—can reduce pesticide usage by 40–50% while maintaining high agricultural yields. The integration of AI for predictive toxicity assessment and real-time monitoring offers a proactive pathway toward sustainable, eco-friendly pest management. The study concludes that balancing pesticide benefits with severe environmental and health impacts requires strict regulation, adoption of safer alternatives, and advanced technology-driven precision farming.
