Impacto da diminuição dos insetos benéficos na agricultura e sua relação com o uso indiscriminado de agrotóxicos: uma perspectiva através do mapeamento técnico-científico e estudo de caso

Abstract

The indiscriminate use of pesticides leads to a reduction in natural enemies in the agroecosystem, causing a serious ecological imbalance that encourages increased doses and the number of applications throughout the production cycle, as well as directly affecting human health. In this context, this study aims to conduct a scientific mapping of the impacts of the indiscriminate use of pesticides in the agroecosystem, particularly in the reduction of natural enemies. Additionally, a technological prospecting was also carried out to investigate the growing interest in the development and protection of these products. Furthermore, solutions are sought to reduce these negative impacts. A case study (Biofal Project) was investigated as a proposal to mitigate the negative impacts of the indiscriminate use of pesticides. To achieve the proposed objectives, a qualitative research method was employed, using previously selected descriptors and searching the main databases of scientific articles and patent databases, as well as collecting information related to legislative and health aspects regarding pesticides in the country. The Web of Science (WoS) tool was used for article searches, which were limited to an analysis of articles published in the last 20 years. For patent prospecting, the Derwent Innovation Index® (DWPI) database was used. The research was based on the selected terms in the title, abstract, and claims of the patents, using International Patent Classification (IPC) codes and keywords (documents published in the last 20 years). The results revealed a significant increase in the number of filed patents in recent years, indicating intense investment in research in this sector. The data found raised concerns about environmental and human health impacts, as well as market concentration in the hands of large companies. It was found that the indiscriminate use of pesticides contributes to the reduction of natural enemies in the agroecosystem, resulting in ecological imbalances and affecting agricultural production. Most studies focus on Europe and North America, which suggest that populations of terrestrial insects are decreasing in both abundance and diversity, but there is a lack of data on tropical insects. The study contributes to the understanding of the impacts of the indiscriminate use of pesticides, presenting possible solutions and using predatory ladybugs as an example through the case study. Thus, the analysis of the case study presents solutions to promote sustainability and the responsible use of natural resources. The project includes the production of bioinputs such as bokashi, biofertilizers, biocaldas, entomopathogenic fungi, and predatory ladybugs, aiming for biological pest control. It was found that the global market for bioinputs is growing, and Biofal seeks to contribute to the production of quality food while reducing the negative impacts of pesticide use. Finally, this study concludes that insects play a vital role in maintaining biodiversity and the food chain, and measures to reduce excessive pesticide consumption are necessary, based on information, biological control as one of the foundations of integrated pest management, and agroecological principles.