Impactos ambientais da utilização de agrotóxicos: percepção dos trabalhadores rurais e adesão a métodos alternativos

Abstract

The aim of this study was to analyze the use of pesticides and the relationship with environmental impacts reported by rural workers in the Missions region, RS. Also, to verify the relationship between the use of pesticides and human health through the model Driving Force, Pressure, Situation, Exposure, Effect, Actions (FPSEEA). The study was developed quantitatively, with cross-sectional design, quantitative approach descriptive and analytical range. Sampling was performed by two-stage conglomerates, with selection proportional to the number of agricultural establishments in the first stage and 292 farmers in the second stage. After signing the Informed Consent Form (FICF) participated in the study, rural workers at least 18 years old, who use pesticides and work at least 15 hours a week in agricultural activities. Statistical analysis of the data was performed with the aid of software R (3.4.3), with the chi-square test for association between factors and two main variables. Alternative methods for reducing pesticide use and environmental impacts in the opinion of the rural worker, with a 5% significance level. The FPSEEA model was also applied to verify the relationship of indicators, defined by the factors in human health. There was a predominance (n = 232; 79.5%) of individuals at least 40 years old and a homogeneous proportion of land between family farmers and those with an area greater than 80 ha (n = 147; 50.3 %). Among respondents 104 (70.7%) believe that the environment can be negatively impacted by pesticide use. The FPSEEA model has proved to be a useful tool in determining how social and environmental factors can affect health. The worst indicators are present in the municipalities of Garruchos, Guarani, Santo Ângelo and Santo Antônio das Missões revealing that many of the individuals exposed to pesticides already had some kind of malaise after handling these products.