A decade of growth and impact of the Pesticide Properties Database (PPDB)

Pesticide risk and hazard-based assessment systems are important tools for evaluating and managing the potential human and environmental impacts of pesticides. Many methods require data on the physicochemical, environmental fate and ecotoxicity properties of active substances. One of the most used resources is the Pesticide Properties Database (PPDB). First developed in 1996 (online since 2006), it has been constantly developed and expanded over 30 years. The first comprehensive description was in 2016. This paper presents the research and development undertaken over the last 10 years and the subsequent usage, applications, and impact. By harmonizing disparate sources, compiling and curating data, the PPDB facilitates a shift toward sustainable pesticide use. It has influenced national regulations; UN conventions; and thousands of research outputs; ultimately reducing global pesticide pollution and supporting biodiversity goals. The future will be characterized by new pesticides; improved science; advances in data, analytics, risk assessment, and management; and artificial intelligence. In combination these will increase the volume of data to be handled, processed, and communicated. The PPDB will need to evolve to keep pace in this rapidly changing space. As technologies advance, it will be important not to lose sight of the value of curated, empirical, and harmonized datasets.