ABSTRACT
The widespread and -expanding use of pesticides in developed and developing countries has made an important contribution to increased crop yields and improved human health. In industrialized countries, there is a substantial literature on pest problems, the use of pesticides and their regulation. However, the amount of independent research is not sufficient to ensure that deviations from optimal pest management practices will be detected, or that the pesticide control systems set up in these countries will be implemented effectively. Farmers, farm managers and workers make most of the specific decisions about agricultural pesticide use and pest control practices. The export of pesticides and pesticide manufacturing processes was becoming a cause for concern, even in 1979, due to: the fear of adverse effects on local ecosystems: concern for the disruption of local agricultural systems; hazards to users, to people living near pesticide production facilities or in areas where pesticides are heavily used, and to consumers of pesticide residues in foods.
