The FAO called upon governments and industry to increase their efforts and financial support to solve this environmental problem. It is estimated that there are several hundred thousand tonnes of obsolete pesticide stocks worldwide, with more than 100,000 tonnes in developing countries. The FAO estimates the amount of pesticide left-overs in Africa at 20,000 tonnes. The situation is even dangerous in Europe, particularly in Poland with 65,000 tonnes, and in the Ukraine with over 23,000 tonnes. The lethal legacy of obsolete pesticides stocks continues to threaten human health and the environment, the FAO said.
Various accidents related to pesticides are quite common and widespread.
Often, drums are stored in the open, next to food stores or markets, and easily accessible to children. Deadly chemicals are contaminating the soils, ground water, irrigation and drinking water. These forgotten stocks are a serious risk, they could cause an environmental tragedy in rural areas and big cities. Particularly in Africa, an enormous variety of pesticides have been imported by developing countries either donated by aid agencies or governments. Some stocks are over 30 years old and can no longer be used because they are banned or they have deteriorated as a result of prolonged storage.