Embedded Files
EcoAlpha surveyed the public at the State Fair about their attitudes toward agricultural chemicals, such as fungicides and pesticides. More than 190 people participated in the survey. We asked five questions related to their attitudes toward agricultural chemicals such as pesticides and fungicides. The questions included if they were familiar with agricultural chemicals, what they associated agricultural chemicals with, if they were concerned about the impacts of agricultural chemicals on human health and environment, and if they thought the benefits of agricultural chemicals outweigh the risks. The results of their responses are summarized below.
Figure 1. How familiar are you with the use of agricultural chemicals (pesticides, fungicides, etc.) in agriculture?
We asked if participants were familiar with agricultural chemicals such as pesticides and fungicides. Most participants indicated that they were at least somewhat familiar with agricultural chemicals such as pesticides and fungicides. About 38% were “somewhat familiar,” 16% were “familiar,” and only 7% “very familiar.” More than one-third had little knowledge. Twenty-six percent reported they had only heard of these chemicals but were not familiar, and 12% were not familiar at all. This suggests that most people were aware of pesticides and fungicides, but their in-depth knowledge was limited.
Figure 2. Which of the following do you associate agricultural chemicals (pesticides, fungicides, etc.) with? (Select all that apply)
We asked participants what they associated agricultural chemicals with and participants recognized both benefits and risks. About two-thirds associated them with increased crop yields (65%) and reduced crop losses from pests and disease (66%). It indicated the public were aware of agricultural chemicals’ role in food production. However, even higher percentage of participants connected agricultural chemicals to negative outcomes: 72% associated chemicals with health risks to humans and 70% with environmental pollution. These results indicate that the public perceives agricultural chemicals as a double-edged sword: on one hand, they are important for increasing crop productivity; but on the other hand, they pose potential risks to human health and environment.
Figure 3. How concerned are you about the impact of agricultural chemicals (pesticides, fungicides, etc.) on human health?
In terms of human health, nearly three-quarters of participants expressed at least some concern: 39% said they were “very concerned” and 35% “somewhat concerned.”
Figure 4. How concerned are you about the impact of agricultural chemicals (pesticides, fungicides, etc.) on the environment?
A similar pattern was observed for environmental impacts: 40% were “very concerned” and 37% were “somewhat concerned.” Only a small proportion (4% of participants in both questions) were not concerned at all. These results indicate the public has strong concerns about both health and environmental risks of agricultural chemicals.
Figure 5. Do you agree or disagree with the following statement: “The benefits of agricultural chemical use outweigh the risks.”
Lastly, we asked whether the benefits of agricultural chemicals outweigh the risks. About 40% either disagreed or strongly disagreed with the statement and 38% were neutral. Only 22% agreed or strongly agreed. This result indicates that the majority of the public are skeptical that the advantages of agricultural chemicals are greater than the potential risks and a significant portion of them are not sure.
Participants show high awareness of both risks and benefits of agricultural chemicals. Many recognized that chemicals can increase yields and reduce crop losses, and a larger proportion of participants associated them with health risks and environmental pollution. About three-quarters were at least somewhat concerned about both health and environmental impacts. These findings suggest that the public has strong skepticism and uncertainty about agricultural chemicals. It shows the need for public education, transparent communication, and the exploration of more sustainable alternatives to chemicals in agriculture.
Page updated
Google Sites
Report abuse