COMPARATIVE EVALUATION OF INTERNATIONAL WATER QUALITY STANDARDS FOR PESTICIDES AND THEIR APPLICATION TO MONITORING DATA FROM THE DOURADOS RIVER (MS, BRAZIL)
Abstract
The intensification of agricultural activities has increased the use of pesticides, contributing to the contamination of surface waters and raising concerns about the effectiveness of environmental regulations. This study aimed to compare international legislation regarding pesticide limits in surface waters and to evaluate the compliance of these standards with empirical data obtained in the Dourados River Basin (MS), from 2020 to 2022. The research adopts a qualitative-quantitative approach, with a documentary and comparative nature, based on the analysis of regulations from different countries and international organizations, as well as monitoring data provided by Embrapa. A total of 46 compounds were evaluated, of which only 17 have established limits in at least one of the analyzed regulations. The results indicated a high frequency of pesticide detection, especially atrazine, tebuconazole, and chlorantraniliprole. The comparison between monitoring data and regulatory limits showed that compliance varies significantly depending on the adopted normative framework. While the observed values generally meet the regulations of countries such as Brazil, the United States, and Canada, non-compliance was identified in relation to the more restrictive standards of the European Union. Furthermore, relevant gaps were identified in the regulations, including the absence of limits for several compounds and the lack of consideration of cumulative effects. It is concluded that regulatory heterogeneity compromises water quality assessment and reinforces the need for regulatory harmonization and continuous updating of standards based on scientific evidence, aiming at the protection of water resources.
Author Biographies
Environmental Engineer graduated from UEMS, with a master's and doctorate in Environmental Science and Technology from UFGD. She has participated in research groups focused on sugarcane, air quality, and applied optics. Currently, she is a professor in on-site and distance education at Centro Universitário da Grande Dourados.
Has experience in Materials Physics, with emphasis on transparent ferroelectric ceramics and structural characterization using Rietveld refinement. Works with electro-optical techniques, multiferroic polymer composite films, and photonic applications in plants. Also dedicated to methodologies and practices in Physics education.
Holds a master’s and doctorate degree in Materials Science from UFMS and a degree in Civil Engineering from UNOESTE-SP. Has experience in complementary projects, construction supervision, and teaching Civil Engineering courses. Conducts research in renewable energy and the development of new materials.
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