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Environmentalists and scientists have put a lot of efforts and energy towards discovering and understanding more about the safety of use of pesticides and possible repercussions in the future. Some support while others disagree on the use of pesticides. In this paper I am going to discuss the pros and cons of the use of pesticides with more focus on use of DDT.
Use of Pesticides
The use of pesticides has been faced with much criticism due to the already available evidence of their hazardous effects and also the possibility of future adverse effects. These concerns are perhaps best raised by Carson. She argues that “every human being is now subjected to contact with dangerous chemicals from the moment of conception till death” (Carson 15).
Pesticides have been traced to water bodies, soil as well as in all living things with heightened concern about the presence of these harmful chemicals in milk. Particular concerns have been raised about synthetic insecticides due to their potential biological hazards. They are said to compromise the immune system, interfere with the oxidation processes, interfere with physiological functions and may even cause cancer (Carson 17).
The use of pesticides with endocrine disruptors, environmental estrogens, and estrogen mimics has been put into question. Studies indicate that physiological functions of animals such as alligators have changed with noticeable changes in their reproductive systems and this has been attributed to misuse of DDT which, according to Trankina and Gough, “acted as an estrogen mimic that resulted in the feminization of the males and over-feminization of the females” (Trankina and Gough 1).
Continuous DDT use is believed to increase its concentration in the higher levels in the food chains and with the already present evidence of its presence in the breast milk and body fats we can only contemplate the future potential hazards when the levels run out of control (Carson 17).
Perhaps the biggest issue of concern is how the insects that we are supposed to eliminate continue to build resistance to DDT and other pesticides. Tis kind of resistance by the pests raises questions of what will eventually happen when the pests will no longer respond to any of the pesticides such as DDT and others. Why not just use more eco friendly methods such as mosquito nets (Trankina and Gough 1).
While there could be some evidence of presence of pesticides in the ecosystem there is arguably no direct correlation between the pesticides and cause of the alleged effects: “DDT does not cause the death of algae at concentrations of 500 parts per billion” (McFinn and Roberts 1).
Other evidence still indicate that though DDT concentrations may have gone up, bird and sea lions population have increased with time. Correct, regulated use and safe practices of these chemicals will bring immeasurable benefits to mankind such as control of malaria which is believed to be one of the most killers in human history.
Use of pesticides boosts food production which keeps the population growing and discontinuing their use may be more catastrophic than the problems associated with their use. DDT is still used in some countries such as India and the benefits by far out weight the risks thus justifying their use (McFinn and Roberts 1).
Use of DDT and other pesticides may cause harm to the ecosystem if not well used and thus it is advisable to approach this issue with more precaution. It is advisable that the environment is well taken care of because its destruction will eventually lead to the destruction of the whole ecosystem.
Carson, Rachel. Silent spring. East Africa: East African Publishers, 1995. Print.
McFinn, Ann and Roberts, Donald. Should DDT Be Banned Worldwide? Environmental Issues, 2007. Web.
Trankina, Michele and Gough, Michael. Do Environmental Hormone Mimics Pose a Health Threat? Environmental Issues, 2007. Web.