A study by researchers from the State University of Campinas (Unicamp) revealed an alarming fact on the quality of rainwater in Brazil. The research analyzed samples in three different cities in the state of São Paulo and identified the presence of several pesticides used in agriculture.
The study was conducted in São Paulo, Campinas and Brotas, cities with different levels of urbanization and land use. In all three locations, pesticides were detected in rainwater, with levels varying according to the proximity of the rural areas where these products are applied.
Dispersion and widespread contamination
The research has shown that there is a significant dispersal of pesticides, even reaching areas not subject to direct spraying, such as the city of São Paulo. This is because, after application in crops, pesticides impregnate the soil, and contaminated particles are brought by wind to the high atmosphere. When it rains, these particles are dragged with the water, contaminating areas far from the original application site.
Among the 15 pesticides verified, the arrangement was the most commonly found. It is important to emphasize that many of these pesticides are prohibited in the European Union due to their potential for contamination and risk of causing serious illness, such as cancer.
Health and environmental risks
The presence of these contaminants in rainwater represents a threat not only to human health, but also to wildlife in intact areas and water supply. Conventional water treatment for human consumption usually does not provide for the removal of this specific type of contaminant, which may result in prolonged exposure of the population.
In addition, many of these pesticides have a cumulative effect, accumulating in fatty tissue over the years, which can lead to serious health problems in the future. The situation is aggravated by increasing use of drones in spraying, which, despite regulation, increases the risk of wind dispersion.
This study serves as an important warning for authorities and society on the need to reassess current agricultural practices and implement more rigorous control measures in the use of pesticides, aiming to protect public health and the environment.
This content was originally published in CNN Terra: Study identifies pesticides in rainwater in SP on the CNN Brazil website.
Source: CNN Brasil
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