Scientific evidence suggests that pesticides contribute significantly to greenhouse gas emissions, whilst making our agricultural systems more vulnerable to the effects of climate change. Pesticides contribute to climate change throughout their lifecycle: manufacturing, packaging, transportation, application, their disposal, and environmental degradation.
99% of all synthetic chemicals (including pesticides) are derived from fossil fuels. Several oil and gas companies play major roles in developing pesticides.
Climate change is expected to increase the use of pesticides – creating a vicious cycle of pesticide use and intensifying climate change. An increase in pesticide use will increase greater pest resistance whilst harming the environment and
public health.
There is another way.
Next week we look at Solutions.
Our actions make a difference
Jackie Orbell
Barrow Benefice ECO Church
RISBY ECO CHURCH ENVIRONMENT OFFICER
