MANAGEMENT OF OBSOLETE PESTICIDES IN BENIN: NEED FOR A CONCERTED DISPOSAL APPROACH

Objective: The study aims to contribute to the need for a concerted approach to the elimination of obsolete pesticides in Benin. Methodology: The methodological approach consisted of an analysis of scientific publications and studies carried out in Benin on the management of pesticides. The study advocated the need for concerted action to phase out obsolete pesticides Results: The investigations confirmed the accumulation in Benin of more than 1496 tons of obsolete pesticides in storage conditions that do not comply with the recommended technical requirements. The best option proposed was to identify at municipal/departmental level an intermediate storage center for seized pesticides before their safe transport to the Alafiarou seed farm store. Several factors have contributed to this situation, including the overestimation of the real supply needs, the existence of a large unconsumed stock of banned pesticides often stored in inappropriate stores, the lack of resources of the control entities and the illicit traffic pesticides from neighboring countries. Conclusion: The accumulation of obsolete pesticides is a reality in Benin and their timely elimination is an asset for their optimal management. A concerted disposal policy involving all players in the pesticide sector is needed for better management of inventoried stocks of obsolete pesticides with a view to preserving public health and the environment.