STATE OF THE PRODUCTION AND CONSUMPTION OF PESTICIDES IN MEXICO

Abstract

Background. One of the problems in Mexico about the use and quantification of pesticides, is that there is a lack of efficient regulation and monitoring because there is no detailed information on its use, so this work analyzes the use of pesticides in Mexico. Objective. To know the current situation of the use of chemical pesticides used in Mexico. Methodology. A search and systematic review of scientific publications related to pesticides in Mexico during the last 20 years in indexed or arbitrated journals. Results. The analysis of these investigations indicates that in Mexico in 2018> 61,000 tons of pesticides were imported, although in 2017 the production was greater than 106 thousand tons. One of the problems in Mexico, as in other countries, is that there is a lack of efficient regulation and monitoring of the use of pesticides. During the last two decades the total consumption of pesticides in Mexico increased between 57-65%, the data from the available sources of their consumption show differences of the annual average of 27%, equivalent to 14,000 t per year, greater than the consumed in 2016 by countries such as Uruguay, Greece, Portugal, the Netherlands and Honduras. Implications. In order to reduce this problem, it is proposed to implement a "national logbook for the registration and use of pesticides" that includes the type of pesticide used, brand, active ingredient, applied dose (Kg / ha) and frequency of application. Conclusions. The obvious inconsistency of thousands of tons between national and international statistics is due to an inadequate quantification of pesticide use, a characteristic that occurs not only in Mexico. This situation is a serious global threat with environmental, economic and social implications, since the potential ecological damage is underestimated. Knowing the actual amount of pesticides used and will allow promoting real strategies aimed at reducing their use.