Suitability of pesticide risk indicators for Less Developed Countries: A comparison

摘要: Pesticide risk indicators provide simple support in the assessment of environmental and health risks from pesticide use, can therefore inform policies to foster a sustainable interaction agriculture with environment. For their relative simplicity, may be particularly useful under con- ditions limited data availability resources, such as Less Developed Countries (LDCs). However, indicator complexity vary significantly, particular between those that rely on an exposure–toxicity ratio (ETR) do not. In addition, are usually developed for Western contexts, which might cause incorrect estimation LDCs. This study investigated appropriateness seven use LDCs, reference smallholding Colombia. Seven farm-level indicators, among 3 relied ETR (POCER, EPRIP, PIRI) 4 non-ETR approach (EIQ, PestScreen, OHRI, Dosemeci et al., 2002), were calculated then compared by means Spearman rank correlation test. Indicators also respect key char- acteristics, i.e. user friendliness ability represent system study. The comparison terms total suggests not relying cannot used reliable proxy more complex, ETR, indicators. when user-friendly, show comparative advantage over best combining need relatively tool contexts risk. Non-ETR remain accessible tools discriminate different pesticides prior application. Concerning human risk, algorithms seem appropriate assessing further research validation LDC conditions is needed.