Local resistance to herbicides will mount in Argentina

Subject

Agrochemicals and health.

Significance

The introduction of genetically modified (GM) crops in Argentina from the mid-1990s led to a rise in glyphosate use, which has now reached 300 million litres annually. Cancer rates in small towns in Argentina’s farm belt, together with global debate on the effect of herbicides on human health, have prompted local communities to call for restrictions on agrochemical use. This is rejected by farmers, many local governments and President Mauricio Macri.

Impacts

• International concerns about herbicide and pesticide use will spur domestic campaigns, and potentially lawsuits.
• The issue will rise on the political agenda, particularly for local governments in the Pampas region.
• If restrictions are applied more broadly, agricultural production and profitability could suffer, forcing farmers to find alternatives.