This study addresses the issue of surface runoff of pesticides from agricultural activities, which poses a significant threat to water systems and public health, particularly in rural areas. Although agriculture is a vital source of employment, income, and food security for millions of Colombians, it is essential to incorporate principles of sustainability into this activity, considering social, environmental, and economic aspects. One of the main impacts on water bodies is the increase in nutrient concentrations, especially nitrogen and phosphorus. This accumulation promotes the excessive growth of algae and other aquatic plants, which hinders the proper penetration of sunlight into the water. As a result, dissolved oxygen levels decrease, which can lead to the death of fish and other aquatic organisms due to oxygen depletion. Implementing phytoremediation through constructed wetlands is a process that uses plants to clean, decontaminate, or restore soil and water by taking advantage of their ability to absorb, degrade, or neutralize chemical pollutants in the environment. This technique offers a sustainable alternative for the remediation of contaminated areas, using the natural detoxification processes of plants and relying on native, non-invasive species. This system will enable farmers to make use of available natural resources while promoting community involvement in protecting water resources. Additionally, it will facilitate the adoption of technology to address pesticide contamination effectively and sustainably in agriculture.
Sánchez et al. (Mon,) studied this question.