Lidieth Gomez, a participant in a long-term study by IRET-UNA, an epidemiological study on pesticide exposure, reports adverse effects such as burning eyes and nausea from pesticide exposure, including chlorothalonil and mancozeb among others, which are linked to potential carcinogenic and neurotoxic effects.
Costa Rica's economy heavily relies on exporting bananas and pineapples. It's the world's third largest exporter of bananas, after Ecuador and the Philippines and 50% goes to Europe but this has led to severe environmental degradation, loss of biodiversity, and health risks for local communities due to the heavy pesticide use.
The investigation reveals the disparity in regulations on chemical use, allowing banned substances in Europe to be used in less affluent countries, raising concerns about ethical and health implications of such practices.
Photo: Marco Valle
