Pesticides are toxic chemicals used to control pests that interfere with humans. They include herbicides, insecticides, fungicides and rodenticides. Some are derived from plants while others are synthetic. Pesticides can have both benefits like increasing crop yields and controlling disease-carrying insects, but also costs from genetic resistance in pests, harming natural predators, and negative health effects from bioaccumulation in the food chain and environment. Integrated Pest Management aims to control rather than eradicate pests through alternative methods and minimal pesticide use tailored to each crop.

1. The Pesticide Dilemma Chapter 22

11. Mobility in the Environment (land -> air -> water)

12. Short-term Effects of Pesticides: Handling of food with pesticide residue can result in headache, vomiting, diarrhea etc.