On World Environment Day, the Pesticide Action Network Asia Pacific called for agroecology to help protect the planet. The group, known as PANAP, made the call from Penang, Malaysia, in 2026. It said farming should work with nature, rather than rely heavily on chemicals.
World Environment Day was held on Friday, 5th June.
PANAP said some large farming systems use many toxic pesticides, synthetic fertilisers and single-crop plantations. The group said these methods can damage soil, pollute waterways and harm fish, insects and other wildlife. It also said the use of some pesticides around the world has almost doubled in the past 30 years.
Agroecology is a way of farming that uses natural systems, local knowledge and a mix of crops. PANAP said it can help keep soils healthy, save water and protect pollinators such as bees. It can also help farms cope better with droughts, floods and pests.
PANAP called on governments to reduce highly hazardous pesticides and support more sustainable farming. The group said communities, small farmers and Indigenous Peoples should have a stronger say in food systems. It said the future of food should protect both people and the environment.
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