The benefits of pesticides to mankind and the environment

Most published material relating to pesticides focuses on negative attributes and outcomes. This fact probably partly explains the public's inaccurate perception of the hazard they represent, and the low level of appreciation of the benefits they bring. This paper explores and analyses the many benefits of using pesticides, in order to inform a more balanced view. It does not attempt to quantify or rank these benefits, nor to weigh them against any negative consequences of pesticide use. Twenty-six primary benefits are identified that are immediate and incontrovertible, and 31 secondary benefits that are longer term, less intuitive and for which it is harder to establish causality. These benefits include increased crop and livestock yields, improved food safety, human health, quality of life and longevity, and reduced drudgery, energy use and environmental degradation. A complex matrix of benefit interactions are explored for a range of beneficiaries at three main levels—local, national and global, and in three main domains—social, economic and environmental.