Pesticide Residues in Brazil: Analysis of Environmental Legislation and Regulation and the Challenge of Sustainable Production

Gabriela Madureira Barroso (), Isabela Goulart Custódio, Cláudia Eduarda Borges, Elizângela Aparecida dos Santos, Thiago Almeida Andrade Pinto, Marcus Alvarenga Soares, Tayna Sousa Duque, Caique Menezes de Abreu and José Barbosa dos Santos
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Gabriela Madureira Barroso: Department of Agronomy, Federal University of Jequitinhonha and Mucuri Valleys, Diamantina 39100-000, MG, Brazil
Isabela Goulart Custódio: Department of Agronomy, Federal University of Jequitinhonha and Mucuri Valleys, Diamantina 39100-000, MG, Brazil
Cláudia Eduarda Borges: Department of Agronomy, Federal University of Jequitinhonha and Mucuri Valleys, Diamantina 39100-000, MG, Brazil
Elizângela Aparecida dos Santos: Institute of Agricultural Sciences, Federal University of Jequitinhonha and Mucuri Valleys, Unaí 38610-000, MG, Brazil
Thiago Almeida Andrade Pinto: Department of Agronomy, Federal University of Jequitinhonha and Mucuri Valleys, Diamantina 39100-000, MG, Brazil
Marcus Alvarenga Soares: Department of Agronomy, Federal University of Jequitinhonha and Mucuri Valleys, Diamantina 39100-000, MG, Brazil
Tayna Sousa Duque: Department of Agronomy, Federal University of Jequitinhonha and Mucuri Valleys, Diamantina 39100-000, MG, Brazil
Caique Menezes de Abreu: Department of Agronomy, Federal University of Jequitinhonha and Mucuri Valleys, Diamantina 39100-000, MG, Brazil
José Barbosa dos Santos: Department of Agronomy, Federal University of Jequitinhonha and Mucuri Valleys, Diamantina 39100-000, MG, Brazil

Sustainability, 2025, vol. 17, issue 6, 1-20

Abstract: This paper critically examines Brazil’s legislative framework for pesticide waste management, highlighting recent advancements and persistent challenges. The introduction of Law 14785/2023 marks a pivotal shift in pesticide regulation, streamlining registration processes and enhancing safety measures. This law consolidates various aspects of pesticide management, from research to disposal, aiming for more efficient oversight. Complementary to this, foundational laws such as the Federal Constitution (1988), Law 6938/1981 (National Environmental Policy), Law 12651/2012 (New Forest Code), and Law 13123/2015 (Biodiversity Law) establish broad guidelines for environmental protection and the sustainable use of resources. Specific regulations, including the Environmental Crimes Act (Law 9605/1998) and CONAMA Resolutions No. 465/2014 and No. 420/2009, address critical aspects of pesticide waste, focusing on proper disposal and soil quality management. Despite these advancements, challenges persist in the effective implementation of these laws. Inadequate monitoring systems and limited stakeholder awareness hinder regulatory enforcement. Strategic recommendations to address these issues include enhancing monitoring technologies, strengthening educational initiatives, fostering stakeholder collaboration, and adapting legislation to keep pace with technological advancements. A robust pesticide waste management system is essential for ensuring long-term sustainability in agricultural production. Inefficient disposal practices can contaminate soil and water, posing risks to biodiversity and public health. By reinforcing regulatory enforcement and integrating sustainable waste management strategies, Brazil can mitigate the environmental impact of pesticide use while promoting safer agricultural practices. The ongoing evolution of legislation reflects a commitment to sustainability; however, continuous efforts are necessary to fully realize these goals and align agricultural development with environmental conservation.

Keywords: Brazilian laws; sustainable management; pesticide residues (search for similar items in EconPapers)
JEL-codes: O13 Q Q0 Q2 Q3 Q5 Q56 (search for similar items in EconPapers)
Date: 2025
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