Nuevas tecnologías aplicadas al sector agrícola para la reducción de peligros a la salud y al medioambiente asociado con plaguicidas

Abstract

Population growth and improved socioeconomic conditions have led to increased food demand, driving agricultural production and the overexploitation of arable land. Pesticides and fertilizers play a crucial role in crop development and food security. However, excessive use has resulted in significant environmental and human health risks. Emerging agricultural technologies offer promising solutions to mitigate the risks associated with pesticide use, enhancing sustainability and food production safety. Precision agriculture, biopesticides, and decision-support systems have proven particularly effective in reducing chemical usage and optimizing resources. This study presents a state-of-the-art review on the impact of new technologies in minimizing pesticide application and their effects on health and the environment. A total of 54 articles were selected based on specific criteria from Springer Link, Science Direct, Google Scholar, and Academic Search Ultimate. The reviewed studies indicate that these technologies can improve agricultural yields, depending on crop type and local conditions. However, their adoption in developing countries faces significant challenges, including high initial investment, low awareness, and limited risk tolerance. To overcome these barriers, it is essential to develop public policies that promote sustainable technology adoption, provide economic incentives, and enhance access to technical training. Additionally, increased investment in research and development is required to adapt these technologies to local conditions and make them more accessible to small-scale farmers. Collaboration between academic institutions, governments, and the private sector is crucial to fostering innovation and ensuring that these technologies benefit all farmers, regardless of their scale or location.