Comparative Analysis of Atrazine, Glyphosate, Organochlorines, Pyrethroids, and Other Persistent Pesticides in the Environment

Abstract

Pesticides remain an integral part of modern agriculture, yet their indiscriminate use continues to raise serious environmental and health concerns. This study examined the ecological and toxicological impacts of widely applied pesticide groups, including atrazine, glyphosate, organochlorines, and organophosphates. Findings revealed that while atrazine and glyphosate are highly effective herbicides, their persistence in soil and water contributes to biodiversity loss, endocrine disruption, and chronic health risks. Organochlorine pesticides, though banned or restricted in many countries, remain environmental contaminants due to their long half-lives and capacity for bioaccumulation and biomagnification. Conversely, organophosphates degrade more rapidly but exhibit acute neurotoxicity by inhibiting cholinesterase activity, thereby posing immediate risks to humans and wildlife. A comparative analysis of these pesticide classes underscores their diverse mechanisms of toxicity, yet highlights a common outcome: disruption of ecological balance and threats to public health. The study emphasizes the urgent need for integrated pest management, stronger regulatory enforcement, and the adoption of eco-friendly alternatives to reduce dependence on synthetic chemicals while ensuring sustainable food production.