How the Public See Our Industries image

Public perceptions of agrichemical use in New Zealand

Agrichemicals are chemical products used in agriculture, these include pesticides, herbicides and fertilisers. They are widely used in NZ to control or eradicate pests and weeds and to supplement or replenish the soil’s natural nutrient level soil to grow food more efficiently.

There are studies that show that, around the world, people are increasingly conscious of the long-term impacts of exposure to agrichemicals. Over the next decade, consumers will increasingly consider any potential human risk in the same way as they now consider environmental risk.

Truwind – Research First took an initial look at public perceptions in this area. Currently, opinions are mixed. Big proportions in the ‘don’t know’ and ‘neutral’ categories also point to low levels of knowledge and awareness on facts surrounding these questions.