On February 20, Brazil made an exciting step toward environmental protection. The Ministry of the Environment and Climate Change (MMA) and EMBRAPA (Brazilian Agricultural Research Corporation) launched a new strategy called the Environmental Monitoring Strategy for PFOS and Pesticides. This plan aims to gather important data about pesticide and PFOS contamination in the environment.
With the help of IBAMA (Brazilian Institute of Environment and Renewable Natural Resources), this initiative will monitor the presence of 53 active pesticide ingredients across the country over the next three years. The goal is to create a solid foundation of data that can help shape effective public policies.
At the launch event in Brasília, Environment Minister Marina Silva spoke about the importance of using data to guide decisions. She mentioned, “We are here to use technology and knowledge to protect the environment and public health while also boosting business and investment quality.”
Alderi Araújo from EMBRAPA highlighted how this strategy improves monitoring of pesticide contamination, stating it is vital for aligning agricultural production with sustainability goals. Rodrigo Agostinho, President of IBAMA, added that this monitoring initiative is a significant step toward ensuring food safety for everyone in Brazil. “We will systematically track a wide range of substances used in agriculture and livestock production for the first time,” he said.
Kelli Mafor, Executive Secretary of the General Secretariat of the Presidency, emphasized the need to hear from civil society, especially those impacted by contamination. She noted that their concerns often guide what needs to be studied and monitored. “This strategy gives us hope to change harmful realities,” she said.
The launch event also welcomed other key figures involved in environmental and agricultural policies.
The strategy has several important aims:
- **Monitor PFOS (Perfluorooctane Sulfonic Acid)**: They will focus on agricultural areas like Minas Gerais, Paraná, and Mato Grosso do Sul.
- **Enhance Pesticide Monitoring in Water**: Over three years, they will expand the list of substances analyzed in this Pilot Program.
- **Study How Pesticides Move**: Research will look at how pesticides travel in the environment and affect water sources.
This initiative aligns with global agreements like the Stockholm and Rotterdam Conventions, which focus on chemical management. It shows Brazil’s commitment to sustainable practices and effective pesticide control.
