A Swedish study led by Cambodian researcher Putheary Ngin of the Royal University of Phnom Penh has found that excessive use of pesticides is endangering Cambodia’s crops, waterways and public health.
The Umea University report, released Wednesday, detected 56 polar pesticides in groundwater and 43 in soil across four provinces along the Mekong River, according to Khmer Times.
Polar pesticides dissolve easily in water, increasing environmental risks. Misuse has surged due to limited understanding of safety instructions, often written in foreign languages, for chemicals imported from Vietnam, Thailand, and China.
The study highlights the need for better farmer education and sustainable practices.
“This overuse harms beneficial insects that protect crops,” said Rica Joy Flor of the International Rice Research Institute. The practice traps farmers in a cycle of excessive spraying, reducing ecological balance and increasing dependency.
Targeted strategies and diversified farming approaches are key solutions, researchers emphasized.
“Policymakers and public health campaigns must prioritize sustainable agriculture to protect farmers, consumers, and the environment,” Putheary Ngin urged.
Source: Khmer Times
