The authors of this article are calling for the urgent banning of all synthetic pesticides in the European Union and for the implementation of agroecological practices to promote health and nature. They draw parallels between the use of pesticides and the asbestos tragedy, highlighting the failure of justice in addressing the health risks associated with these toxic chemicals. They urge for action to defend the right to health and preserve social protection systems, emphasizing the need to learn from past mistakes and avoid another disaster like the ongoing pesticide-related health crisis.
The authors point out how the initial fascination with asbestos and pesticides led to a collective blindness to their harmful effects. Just as asbestos was once seen as a magical mineral with numerous applications, pesticides were hailed as miraculous tools that allowed for control over nature. However, the hidden dangers and health risks associated with these substances were ignored, leading to widespread exposure and devastating health consequences. The authors stress the importance of understanding the history of asbestos and pesticides in order to prevent similar tragedies in the future.
The failure to acknowledge and address work-related diseases linked to pesticides is highlighted by the authors, who criticize the current political attitudes that prioritize minimal compensation over prevention efforts. They question the justification for continuing to use toxic pesticides in Europe when the health risks associated with them are well-documented and compensated for in some cases. The lack of consistency in public health policies regarding pesticides mirrors the shortcomings in addressing asbestos-related illnesses in the past, pointing to the need for a shift in approach towards prevention rather than reaction.
Scientific research has shown the detrimental effects of pesticides on human health and biodiversity, with significant declines in sperm count, insect populations, and ecosystem health. The authors emphasize the urgent need to ban synthetic pesticides and transition to agroecological practices that promote both human health and environmental well-being. They highlight a 2019 ruling by the Court of Justice of the European Union that found current pesticides did not comply with the law due to inadequate toxicity evaluations, further underscoring the need for immediate action to address the dangers posed by these chemicals.
A new agricultural paradigm without pesticides is advocated as a healthier and more sustainable approach for farmers, consumers, and the environment. The authors stress the importance of supporting farmers in this transition, both logistically and financially, to ensure a smooth shift towards agroecological practices. They point to the strain that diseases linked to pesticide exposure have put on social protection systems, calling for preventive measures to avoid escalating health crises. Drawing from the lessons of the past asbestos tragedy, the authors urge policymakers to act swiftly to ban synthetic pesticides and embrace a more sustainable agricultural model for the future.
In conclusion, the authors call on the European Commission, the European Parliament, and member states to take decisive action in banning synthetic pesticides and promoting agroecological practices. They warn against repeating the mistakes of the past, such as the asbestos tragedy, and emphasize the interconnectedness of human health and biodiversity in the face of escalating pesticide-related health risks. By learning from past failures and prioritizing prevention over reaction, they believe the EU can create a healthier, more sustainable future for all its citizens.
