In a first-of-its-kind effort to assess the environmental footprint of pesticide use, CropLife America (CLA) commissioned the University of Arkansas to examine crop productivity with and without pesticides (herbicides, insecticides, and fungicides) for three crops. The study was led by researchers Dr. Marty Matlock and Dr. Greg Thoma to conduct an independent three-year cradle-to-farmgate Life Cycle Assessment that comprehensively evaluates the environmental benefits and impacts of pesticide application in the cultivation of corn, cotton, and soybeans in the U.S. The completed assessment successfully underwent an independent third-party ISO review.  

 

The assessment’s key results showed: 

• Without pesticides, the yields of corn, cotton, and soybeans declined up to 70 percent, underscoring the indispensable role of pesticides in agriculture.
• Cultivating corn, cotton, and soybeans without pesticides resulted in upwards of three times more land, water, energy use, and greenhouse gas emissions.
• Pesticides enhance productivity and significantly reduce pressure on our water, land, and energy resources per bushel of corn and soybeans and per pound of cotton produced.

 

“This three-year, independent assessment demonstrates that pesticides play a critical role in increasing crop yields while decreasing consumption of natural resources. We are pleased to have the data to support the work we do as we advance our commitment to sustainability,” said Alexandra Dunn, CropLife America, president and CEO. “In a world grappling with food security and climate change, the researchers’ findings affirm the significant role pesticides play in helping to feed, fuel, and clothe our world’s growing population in a sustainable manner. This is good news for today and the future.”

 

Read the study’s final report here.