Herbicide residue in food chain and environment: impact on society and management

Abstract

Herbicides are an indispensible component of agricultural sector. However, their indiscriminate use led to the herbicide residues in soil, air, water. Herbicides in most instances when applied at recommended doses did not result in residues in food chain or in soil at level that should cause concern. Notwithstanding, to guarantee minimal negative side-effects on crop ecosystems other than the soil-plant systems, herbicides should have no or low toxicity, except for the target weeds. Even though the switch to low-dose herbicides has significantly reduced herbicide consumption, most surface water and groundwater samples still contain herbicides, sometimes at levels harmful for human health and for environment. Herbicide use should be done in recommended dosage so that least possible deterioration of the environment is done. Integrating practices like bioaugmentation, use of organic matter can help in residue management. Phyto-remediation is an emerging technology for the removal of herbicide residues from the contaminated site. Therefore, mitigation strategies of herbicide residue hazard need to be developed to lessen their effect on environment by reducing adverse impacts to less than significant levels. To avoid potential ill effects, strict and stringent regulatory mechanism is to be developed. A critical aspect to mitigation is the implementation of best management practices which is facilitated by effective education and training programs.