Revisiting pesticide pollution: The case of fluorinated pesticides

Fluorinated pesticides acquired a significant market share in the agrochemical sector due to the surge of new fluoroorganic ingredients approved in the last two decades. This growing trend has not been accompanied by a comprehensive scientific and regulatory framework entailing all their potential negative impacts for the environment, especially when considering the hazardous properties that may result from the incorporation of fluorine into organic molecules. This review aims to address the safe/hazardous dichotomy associated with fluorinated pesticides by providing an updated outlook on their relevancy in the agrochemical sector and how it leads to their role as environmental pollutants. Specifically, the environmental fate and distribution of these pesticides in the ecosystems is discussed, while also analysing their potential to act as toxic substances for nontarget organisms.

Automated summary

Fluorinated pesticides have gained significant market share in the agrochemical sector due to the approval of new fluoroorganic ingredients in the past two decades. However, there is lack of a comprehensive scientific and regulatory framework to address their potential negative impacts. Further research and discussion are needed to differentiate between the safety and hazards associated with fluorinated pesticides.