Year: 2025
Type: article
Abstract: Objectives: This research aims to understand local perceptions regarding pesticide usage. Methods: Interviews, focus group discussions (FGDs), and live experiences were conducted with farmers in the Karo Regency, Indonesia. Six farmers, one FGD group, as well as pesticide vendors and staff from the Department of Agriculture, were interviewed. Results: Local perceptions heavily influence pesticide usage. Pesticides are considered irreplaceable medicine with no alternative options. Health risks, if perceived, are addressed through local traditions. Pesticides and farmers have formed a close relationship, wherein farmers cannot detach themselves from their dependency on pesticides. Conclusions: There is a need for a more thorough assessment to make farmers more mindful in pesticide usage.
Authors: Fotarisman Zaluchu, Novi Fitriani Nazara
Institution: Universitas Sumatera Utara
Language: English
Subfield: Plant Science
Domain: Life Sciences
Open Access status: diamond
OpenAlex ID: W4413817484