Identification of the Environmental Impact of Agrochemicals Used in Agriculture

The continued use of agrochemicals in Valle de Arista, SLP, Mexico, has generated loss of effectiveness of molecules and impacts on public health and the environment. To identify environmental and socioeconomic impacts, a quantification method was designed using the Kovach Environmental Impact Quotient and environmental accounting of pesticides (Leach and Mumford) that included agricultural diagnosis, identification of agrochemicals impacts. Producers, technical advisors and agri-inputs dealers were surveyed as key agents of tomato (Solanum lycopersicum) and chili pepper crops (Capsicum annuum) due to their economic importance. Gower quotation coefficients were calculated to measure similarity of quantitative, qualitative and dichotomous variables with continuous, discrete and binary characteristics. The use of fungicides (carbendazim and chlorothalonil) showed the greatest environmental impact, followed by insecticides (endosulfan, thiametoxam) and herbicides. The negative externality averaged USD$15.60 ha-1, corresponding to 50% of tomato, 31.25% to poblano pepper and 18.75% to serrano pepper. Estimated damages due to the use of greenhouses were 37.7% to the consumer, 21.2% to the worker, 14.8% to aquatic life, 3.6% to birds, 9.2% to bees and 3.3% to insects.