Chemical fertilizers can have extensive effects on human health. They can contaminate the quality of surface water and groundwater, as well as cause poisoning in most of the individuals who eat pesticide-sprayed fruits and vegetables.
Ecosystem Interactions Class Discussion Presentation in Blue Green Lined Styl...
Impact of Chemical Fertilizers on Human Health
1.
2. Chemical pesticides can have far-reaching effects on human health. They
can contaminate the quality of surface water and groundwater, as well as
cause toxicity within most individuals who consume pesticide-sprayed
fruits and vegetables. Since most farmers use these fertilizers on their
farm, animals receive first-hand exposure to these toxins--thus causing
people who ingest non-organic meat products to experience pesticide
toxicity, too.
3. Chemical fertilizer is more "hygienic" because natural fertilizer
can cause viruses or bacteria in plants which leads to disease in
humans who eats them. It is also much cheaper than natural
fertilizer.
The use of chemical fertilizers has a great importance for the
world's food production and food prices. If we didn’t had the
opportunity to use chemical fertilizers it would have been higher
food prices. This would have affected poor people the most.
Chemical fertilizers are very useful because it works as fast food
for plants. They can absorb the nutrients immediately and the
fertilizer works quickly.
One of the benefits with chemical fertilizers is that it’s custom-
made for our requirement. If the soil is rich in nitrogen and
potassium, it will need a fertilizer that will take care of the lack of
phosphorus. Chemical fertilizers give us the option of using
phosphorus-rich fertilizers.
4. The three main nutrients that
plants needs supplies of are
nitrogen (N), phosphorus (P) and
potassium (K). All fertilizers
contain either one or more of these
nutrients.
Nitrogen makes sure that the
plants evolve and lets the green
parts grow.
Phosphorus has a lot to say for the
development of the root system
and the plant quality. Big and
strong roots provide a healthier and
more resistant plant.
Potassium is essential for the bud
placement and fruit quality.
Potassium also has much to say on
the plants' ability to endure the
winter.
5. The biggest issue facing the use of chemical fertilizers is groundwater
contamination. Nitrogen fertilizers break down into nitrates and travel easily
through the soil. Because it is water-soluble and can remain in groundwater for
decades, the addition of more nitrogen over the years has an accumulative
effect.
6. Knowing and understanding the effects of chemical fertilizers
doesn't do us much good without action on our part. Knowing
how to protect our health is what counts.
If you're on well-water have
your water tested regularly by a
reputable lab.
Support organic and sustainable
agriculture. Know your farm and
your farmer and understand their
practices.
Take part in safeguarding
organic practices and standards.
Visit Organic Consumers for
details.
Learn more about organic
fertilizer for your own garden.