Humans have been using the pesticides since before 500 BC for the preventing the damage to their crops. The first pesticide was sulphur and various toxic chemicals like arsenic, mercury and lead were being applied to crops for killing pests by 15th century. Nicotine Sulfate was extracted from tobacco leaves in 17th century for its use as an insecticide. In the 19th century, the two more natural pesticides were introduced including pyrethrum and rotenone that were derived from the roots of tropical legumes. Paul Müller found in 1939 that DDT was a very effective insecticide. It quickly became the most widely-used pesticide throughout the world. However, in the 1960s, DDT was found to prevent many fish-eating birds from reproducing and thereby poses a big threat to biodiversity. DDT was also found to result in birth defects in animals and humans. As of now, DDT is banned in many countries and in developing nations it is used for killing mosquitoes and other disease-carrying insects that causes malaria and other tropical diseases.
The use of pesticide has increased many fold since 1950, and approx 2.5 million tons of industrial pesticides are used each year. Glyphosate is currently the most used herbicide in the world. Prior to applying a single dose of pesticide, Gardeners should read and follow the instructions by manufacturers carefully those were printed on the container and label. It is recommended to store pesticides carefully in a secured location. Pesticides and other poisonous chemicals should be kept in their original containers for eliminating any confusion regarding its contents. Pesticides are also harmful to the pets and they should be kept away from treated areas.
The disposal of pesticides has to be done in a proper manner. The Lakes and rivers can get contaminated by pesticides if not used correctly. You should never use pesticides nearby these water sources. Also, you should not use it on neighbouring properties. It is better to avoid using pesticides in garden areas that grows edible crops during harvest seasons. As per the instructions mentioned in the label, the pesticides should be disposed accordingly. You should never discard a container with left over pesticide remaining in it. The improper disposal like burning containers or loitering may lead to the contamination of water supplies.
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