Story perspectives

Pesticide Toxicity Soars 42.9%: Experts Demand Global Action

2/6/2026

Summary

Story summary

A global study covering 65 countries finds pesticide toxicity to insects rose 42.9% from 2013 to 2019, indicating rising ecological harm.
Europe and China reduced toxicity, while Africa, India, the United States, Brazil, and Russia saw increases.
Experts call for global action, including organic farming and less toxic pesticides, to meet UN biodiversity goals.
The study also highlights the need for better data to monitor pesticide impacts on ecosystems.

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Story summary

A global study covering 65 countries finds pesticide toxicity to insects rose 42.9% from 2013 to 2019, indicating rising ecological harm.
Europe and China reduced toxicity, while Africa, India, the United States, Brazil, and Russia saw increases.
Experts call for global action, including organic farming and less toxic pesticides, to meet UN biodiversity goals.
The study also highlights the need for better data to monitor pesticide impacts on ecosystems.