In this fascinating book, Graham Matthews takes the reader through the history of the development and use of chemicals for control of pests, weeds, and vectors of disease. Prior to 1900 only a few chemicals had been employed as pesticides but in the early 1940s, as the Second World War raged, the insecticide DDT and the herbicide 2-4-D were developed. These changed everything. Since then, farmers have been using a growing list of insecticides, herbicides and fungicides to protect their crops. Their use has undoubtedly led to significant gains in agricultural production and reduction in disease transmission, but also to major problems: health concerns for both users of pesticides and the general public, the emergence of resistance in pest populations, and environmental problems. The book examines the development of legislation designed to control and restrict the use of pesticides, the emergence of Integrated Pest Management (IPM) and the use of biological control agents as part of policy to protect the environment and encourage the sustainable use of pesticides. Finally, the use of new technologies in pest control are discussed including the use of genetic modification, targeted pesticide application and use of drones, alongside basic requirements for IPM such as crop rotations, close seasons and adoption of plant varieties with resistance to pests and diseases.

Exposure to a wide variety of chemicals and drugs has become common in industrial, laboratory, and even household environments. Fortunately, global understanding and consequently global safety standards regarding the management of toxic and hazardous substances are fast approaching uniformity. The methods of handling, use, transportation, storage, and disposal in particular are moving toward standardization. As these protocols involving chemicals and drugs continue to cross international borders, students and professionals need a reliable resource to ensure they observe appropriate safety standards. The Industrial Guide to Chemical and Drug Safety covers not only current standards, but also a wealth of information on toxins to help regulatory bodies develop new protocols. Written in an accessible narrative style, the Guide covers chemicals by key classes such as solvents, pesticides, and metals, and also by key industries such as drugs, food additives, plastics, cosmetics, detergents, and soaps. The book explains the beneficial and harmful aspects of a broad range of materials to which students, trainees, skilled workers, managers, and personnel associated with regulatory agencies are exposed, with the purpose of helping them avoid the illnesses associated with the misuse of chemicals and drugs. Chapters include: -Heavy Metals -Pesticides -Industrial Solvents -Industrial Gases and Fumes -Drugs -Target Organ Toxicity -Disposal of Hazardous Chemicals -Guidance to Students and Workers -Good Laboratory Practice