Modes of pesticides utilization by Brazilian smallholders and their implications for human health and the environment

► Many pesticides consumed in Brazil are outlawed in other parts of the world. ► The social context of pesticides use is key to the understanding of contamination. ► Risk minimization by pesticides users is not caused by ignorance of potential risks. ► Physical-chemical parameters control the fate of pesticides in the environment. ► Pesticides mobility affects soils and groundwater chemical characteristics.