Chem 1010 Group discussion

Pesticides: Are the Benefits Worth the Risks?

For the in-class discussion on Thurs, Oct 6, we will be exploring the pros and cons of pesticides (which include herbicides, insecticides, fungicides, and so on). When you come to class, please be prepared to defend the use of pesticides or to argue that they are used too much. Use the questions below to guide your search.

1. What are the major benefits of pesticide use?

2. How widespread is pesticide use in the US?

3. What are some health problems that pesticides can cause?

4. What are some environmental problems linked to pesticides?

5. What are some alternatives to pesticides?

For those who will be absent, please do the above reading, and then write a 1-2 page typed paper answering the questions and defending the use of pesticides or arguing against their use.