Agrochemicals in modern agriculture: regulatory, environmental and socioeconomic differences between Europe and Latin America
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Abstract
Agrochemicals are a fundamental component of modern agriculture, although their intensive use raises concerns regarding human health, biodiversity, ecosystems and the sustainability of production systems. The aim of this study was to analyse the regulatory, environmental and socio-economic differences associated with the use of agrochemicals between Europe and Latin America. A systematic literature review of a qualitative, descriptive and comparative nature was conducted, based on scientific literature published between 2021 and 2025 and sourced from academic databases. The selection process involved identification, screening and eligibility assessment, resulting in a final corpus of 30 documents organised into five thematic categories. The results revealed greater regulatory harmonisation, centralisation of risk assessment and consolidation of control mechanisms in Europe, whilst Latin America exhibited fragmented regulatory frameworks, institutional weaknesses and enforcement difficulties. Environmental impacts related to soil degradation and the adverse effects on amphibians and pollinators were also identified, as well as risks to human health and socio-economic difficulties for small-scale farmers. It is concluded that reducing these divergences requires strengthening institutional capacities, expanding technical assistance and promoting sustainable alternatives that reduce dependence on synthetic agrochemicals.
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