Journal of Agriculture
and Environmental Sciences

Cambodian Vegetable Farmers’ Knowledge, Attitude, and Practices regarding Pesticide Use and Health Risk
Vibol Sok, Socheat Tong, Sokmean Vann, Borarin Buntong

Abstract
An increase in pesticide use in Cambodia has increased concerns about harmful effects on human health and environment. This study was conducted using questionnaire-based interviews and practical observation at farm level with vegetable farming households in three provinces in Cambodia to assess farmer’ knowledge, attitudes, safety and agricultural practices regarding pesticide use and health risks. Vegetable production relied mainly on chemical pesticides to control pests. 4 fungicides and 16 insecticides were used by the farmers. A majority of the pesticides belonged to WHO class II (75%), followed by class I (10%), class III (5%) and class U (10%).Farmers were aware of harmful effects of the pesticides on human health and environment but they did not protect themselves adequately. Farmers were not aware of correct pesticide application and technical knowledge was transferred from pesticide sellers. Most farmers in Siem Reap and Takeo respected application rates while in Kandal used higher rates. Furthermore, farmers in Kandal mixed more pesticides in one spraying than in Siem Reap and Takeo. Application intervals were shorter in Kandal, followed by Takeo and Siem Reap, respectively. Pre-harvest intervals were not applicable, so, health risks to the consumers varied with the pesticides used, application rates and pest appearance in the crop cycles. The findings suggest that improving safety and agricultural practices, enforcing use restrictions of the hazardous and persistent pesticides, and adopting alternative measures will considerably reduce the associated risks.

Full Text: PDF     DOI: 10.15640/jaes.v12n2a3