Welcome letter for participants

Dear Participant,

We welcome you to the XVII Symposium on Pesticides Chemistry “Advances and New Challenges” which brings together leading scientists, regulators, and industry experts to address the critical issues facing the field of pesticide science. The use of pesticides has been an integral part of human civilization for millennia. From the earliest applications of natural substances to control pests to the development of synthetic chemicals in the 20th century, the pursuit of effective and efficient means to protect crops and livestock from harm has driven innovation in pesticide science. Early pesticides were often derived from natural sources, such as plant extracts or mineral salts. While effective to some extent, these compounds were often limited in their broad-spectrum activity and could pose hazards to human health and the environment. The advent of synthetic pesticides in the mid-20th century revolutionized pest control, offering a wider range of potent and persistent chemicals. However, the widespread use of these synthetic pesticides also raised concerns about their long-term environmental and human health impacts.

In recent decades, pesticide chemistry has undergone a significant transformation, driven by growing concerns about the sustainability of traditional approaches and the need for more targeted and environmentally friendly pest control strategies. This evolution has been marked by several key trends, such as: the development of more selective pesticides, minimizing their impact on non-target organisms, including beneficial insects and pollinators; the increased focus on natural and bio-based pesticides as alternatives to synthetic pesticides to reduce the environmental impact and lower human health risks; and the rise of precision agriculture techniques, combining biological, cultural, and chemical control methods to manage pest populations sustainably.

The conference’s five main sections reflect the key areas of research and innovation that are shaping the future of pesticide chemistry: 1) Modeling pesticides fate, exposure, and effects; 2) Pesticide risk mitigation measures (RMMs): efficacy evaluation and implementation; 3) Pesticides behavior at microscopic level; 4) One Health; and 5) BioSolutions. These sections are not isolated topics but rather interconnected elements of a holistic approach to tackle pesticide research, providing a comprehensive understanding of the challenges and opportunities facing the field. The conference will emphasize the importance of interdisciplinary collaboration to develop effective and sustainable solutions for pest control. By bringing together diverse perspectives and expertise, the conference aims to foster innovation and drive progress toward a future where pesticides are used responsibly and safely to protect crops, livestock, and human health while minimizing environmental impacts.

Sincerely,

organizing committee