The Impact of Pesticide Use on Soil Health and Long-Term Crop Sustainability: A Global Review

Abstract

The widespread adoption of synthetic pesticides since the Green Revolution has been a cornerstone of modern agriculture, significantly boosting global food production by controlling pests, diseases, and weeds. However, this reliance has come at a cost to the environment, particularly to soil health—the foundation of sustainable agroecosystems. This paper synthesizes global research on the effects of pesticide application on soil properties, biodiversity, and long-term agricultural productivity. While acknowledging the critical role of pesticides in safeguarding short-term crop yields and ensuring food security, the review presents substantial evidence of their detrimental impacts. These include the suppression of beneficial soil microbial communities (bacteria and fungi), a decline in the abundance and activity of soil fauna (e.g., earthworms), and the disruption of key biochemical processes like nutrient cycling and organic matter decomposition. Over time, these changes can lead to reduced soil fertility, increased dependency on chemical inputs, and the accumulation of persistent toxic residues. Consequently, the long-term sustainability of cropping systems is compromised, manifesting as yield stagnation, increased pest resistance, and reduced resilience to environmental stresses. The paper concludes that a paradigm shift towards Integrated Pest Management (IPM), enhanced regulation of high-risk compounds, and the promotion of biological alternatives is urgently required to mitigate these negative effects and ensure the viability of global agricultural systems.