Critical Analysis and Ameliorative Strategies in Combating the Impact of Climate Variability on Pesticide Dynamics and Efficacy

Abstract

The importance of pesticides in the economy especially in agriculture, cannot be over-emphasized. It is therefore very crucial to uphold and maintain the efficacy of these pest control agents. This study seeks to explore the effect of climate variables on the potency of pesticides. Climate change has emerged as one of the most significant global challenges, disrupting weather patterns and altering ecosystems. These changes pose serious implications for pest dynamics, distribution, and behavior, thereby directly influencing the performance of pesticides. This study analyzed relevant articles related to climate change and pesticides systematically sourced from credible reference databases for a period of 21 years from 2002 to 2023, using the most suitable keywords. Recent scientific research and empirical evidence, analyzing the effects of rising temperatures, altered precipitation patterns, and changing humidity levels on pests and their interactions with pesticide applications were studied. The relevant impact of these effects is seen in reduced agricultural yield, loss of livelihood and source of income, infestation and destruction of agricultural crops, and reduced living standard in the society amongst others. The projected changes include; the development of adaptive agricultural practices and integration of climate-resilient pest management strategies that could improve the efficacy of pesticides. This involves exploring the potential of eco-friendly and biologically-based pest control approaches to reduce the destructive impacts that arise from climate change. These sustainable practices and novel technologies aimed at improving pest control under changing climatic conditions must be encouraged and upheld tenaciously.