Journal or Publishing Institution: Air Quality, Atmosphere & Health
Study: https://link.springer.com/article/10.1007/s11869-025-01733-4
Author(s): Mehdizadeh, M., Omidi, A., Choudhury, A.R., Abideen, Z. and Mendes, K.F.
Article Type: Journal Publication
Abstract:
This review provides a comprehensive examination of herbicide contaminants in the air, focusing on their sources, transport mechanisms, and implications for human and environmental health. Herbicides, extensively used in agriculture, forestry, and urban settings, are frequently detected in the atmosphere due to their volatile properties. For instance, glyphosate and its metabolite aminomethylphosphonic acid (AMPA) are found in air and rain across agricultural regions, with up to 0.7% of applied glyphosate removed via precipitation. Agricultural spraying, volatilization from treated surfaces, and industrial emissions are identified as major sources, with spray drift documented to affect non-target areas up to 250 m away. Inhalation exposure poses significant risks, including respiratory irritation and potential carcinogenicity, while ecological impacts include biodiversity loss and disruption of aquatic ecosystems. The review underscores the need for improved monitoring, stricter regulations (buffer zones), and mitigation strategies such as drift-reduction technologies and integrated weed management (IWM). By synthesizing current knowledge, this work emphasizes actionable solutions to minimize airborne herbicide contamination and protect human and environmental health.
Keywords: glyphosate, aminomethylphosphonic acid, AMPA, Atmospheric herbicide
Citation:
Mehdizadeh, M., Omidi, A., Choudhury, A.R., Abideen, Z. and Mendes, K.F., 2025. Atmospheric herbicide contamination: sources, long-range transport, and health-environmental risks. Air Quality, Atmosphere & Health, pp.1-18.
Category:
- Health effects
Record ID: 2836
