ABSTRACT
This conclusion presents some closing thoughts covered in the preceding chapters in this book. The precautionary principle changes the balance of power between science and the community, and its implementation is part of the new relationship between industry and science called for by 'Mayhew' and 'Alessi'. The high-yield farming with fewer external inputs or with organic farming methods are possible, but require a sophisticated blend of local knowledge and technology to be successful. The serious threats to the pesticide industries profitability are described by Koechlin and Wittke. Shareholders will not readily accept a decrease in the earning power of a company for a diversification they can effect more cheaply by buying shares from different companies. The survey by Foster and colleagues grounded in the theory outlined by Pearce and Tinch obtained estimates for the social costs associated with different dimensions of the impacts of pesticides in cereal farming their effects on wildlife and human health.
