INTRODUCTION

One of the main consequences of the changes in Argentine agriculture since the late 20th century are the growing environmental and health impacts related to direct and indirect exposure to agricultural chemicals. The objective of this work was to contribute to the understanding of conflicts and controversies regarding health and environmental effects of agrochemical use.

METHODS

A case study was performed in the town of Selva, Santiago del Estero province, Argentina. Secondary information sources were reviewed, and 40 interviews with key actors were conducted during six field trips in 2018 and 2019.

RESULTS

There are specific regulations regarding the use of agricultural chemicals, minimum application distance and toxicity level, as well as a certain institutional framework for enforcement, control and monitoring. Everyday exposure to environmental and health impacts led to the development of a grassroots movement and to the social construction of risks.

DISCUSSION

Policies on the use of agricultural chemicals are fragmented into a myriad of regulations and agencies belonging to different levels of government; health concerns play a secondary role in this context. In spite of minor advances, there is no official recognition of environmental and health damage caused by agrochemicals.

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