One reason that CR uses so many pesticides is there is a tax exemption for these chemicals, which does not discourage growers from using them. Also, there is a “more is better” philosophy on the part of growers, and the government does essentially nothing to educate people on the judicious use of these chemicals.

An educational program is in the country’s interest as much as it is in the interests of growers and agricultural workers. The waterways are polluted with these chemicals, and both humans and wildlife are being affected. The impacts on the public health system, if no other factor, should push the government to do something immediately to curtail use of these dangerous chemicals.