Evaluation of innovative agricultural technologies for environmental protection and farmer safety

Abstract

Due to the use of pesticides and chemical fertilizers in their work, agricultural workers are exposed to hazardous chemicals that can have harmful effects on human health. These substances can act as endocrine disruptors and have mutagenic and carcinogenic effects, capable of causing metabolic disorders and neurodegenerative diseases (Parkinson’s disease, Alzheimer’s disease, and ALS). Current legislation (Directive 2009/128/EC, implemented in Italy by Legislative Decree No. 150 of August 14, 2012, for plant protection products, and by Regulation (EU) 2019/1009 for fertilizers) governs the use of these products. Directive 2009/128/EC ensures the sustainable use of pesticides, promotes integrated pest management strategies and alternative techniques that reduce the need to use such products, with the aim of protecting the environment and ensuring the safety and health of agricultural workers. Quantica R&D employs innovative, patented technology to develop sustainable products for use in agriculture as alternatives to conventional pesticides and fertilizers. This technology is currently applied in various sectors—including agriculture—in the context of using substances with low environmental impact. It acts on the physicochemical properties of the biological systems with which it comes into contact, particularly those of water. In this study, Quantica R&D’s products—L57 Water Dry and L57 Water Dry Plus—were evaluated for their potential use as alternatives to conventional pesticides and fertilizers by analyzing various plant physiological and growth parameters. Both products proved effective in reducing the quantity of pesticides required for crop cultivation and protection. Furthermore, during cultivation, a reduction in irrigation water consumption, increased plant resistance to pathogens and adverse conditions, a significant rise in plant nutrient levels, and cost savings were observed. The data obtained are highly encouraging; however, further studies are needed to confirm these results, given that the tested products appear to offer an alternative to conventional farming methods, supporting sustainable agriculture that protects the environment as well as the health and safety of agricultural workers.