Episode 42 – Pesticides: the good, the bad and the ugly

Why are pesticides used and could society do without them? In this episode, we trace the story of agriculture, from its origins to modern day. We meet familiar enemies – pests and diseases – and explore how chemicals are used to control them and keep plants healthy. And we look at how traces can end up in our food - and environment - and what it means for our health and wildlife. Together with EFSA expert Tobin Robinson, we discuss the risks, the science, and the alternatives, from traditional methods to new approaches. And we get up close with an example: the ingredients of an organic pesticide used to protect peaches.