The pesticide applicator profile of São José dos Quatro Marcos - MT

Abstract

 

In order for the correct final destination of empty pesticide packaging to occur, the participation of the entire production chain, from the manufacturer, shopkeeper to the users (farmers) must be involved. The legislation is very clear and demanding about correct disposal, but control is sometimes flawed, and incorrect disposal occurs which can poison humans and contaminate water bodies and animals. This is likely due to lack of information and training or even insufficient information. Thus, the objective of this research was to diagnose the behavior of a group of farmers from São José dos Quatro Marcos (MT) regarding the correct disposal of empty pesticide packages, through semi-structured interviews and bibliographic research. We conclude that the educational level of farmers could be one of the major factors interfering with their knowledge of pesticides, causing this lack of prior knowledge to result in actions understood as being commonplace when working with pesticides.