Pesticides and violations of human rights to health and food sovereignty in Guarani Kaiowá communities in MS, Brazil

Abstract

Brazil, one of the world’s largest agricultural producers and consumers of pesticides, has expanded its agricultural area in the southern region of Mato Grosso do Sul, intensifying environmental contamination and increasing the vulnerability of indigenous populations. This research assessed the presence of pesticides in the waters of two indigenous communities in MS, Retomada Guyraroká and Aldeia Jaguapiru. Between 2021 and 2022, three sampling campaigns of surface, supply, and rainwater were conducted, considering the agricultural calendar. The study followed the LARP/UFSM protocol. In total of 22 active ingredients (AIs) were found, among these, 41% cause serious health effects, and 68% are banned in the European Union. Fipronil, 2,4-D, Atrazine are the among the most frequent IA found. Results show that these communities are exposed to pesticides, violating their rights to health and food sovereignty.

Key words: Pesticide; Indigenous people; Public health; Water quality; Environmental pollution