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Article Review

Abdullah Altarooti

Methodist University

Article review

Environment sustainability is one of the most controversial yet important issues in the modern society. Considering the current pollution and global warming effects, every effort should be made towards saving the environment from further destruction. Redbond (2015) discusses the importance of maximizing weed control to this effect. In his article, ‘Maximizing weed control’ Redmond reports that weed growth leads to the loss of $100,000 every year. The reason behind this outcome is uncontrolled growth resulting from increased herbicide resistance by weeds. Redbond argues that the need for further research and development of stronger and more efficient herbicides cannot be ignored. The importance of eliminating weeds for proper productivity in farming notwithstanding, the use of herbicides is something that the industry should be moving away from rather than investing in. On the contrary, this essay will show that it is better to use alternative methods of weeding than to invest in more chemical-based solutions.

The levels of environmental degradation caused by the use of herbicides are visible. Even Redbond acknowledges this fact by stating that Atrazine, which is one of the chemicals used in the production of herbicides, is particularly harmful to the environment because it does not break down (Redmond, 2015). Even more unfortunate is the fact that these chemicals find their way into the water sources. The chemicals intoxicate the water and endanger marine life, as well as, humans. Therefore, though Redbond seeks to show the importance of herbicides in weed control, he downplays the disservice they do to the same environment they should be preserving. To counter Redmond’s position, Upadhyaya and Blackshaw (2007) observe that the best way to solve the problem is through integration of non-chemical weed management options. Some of these options include the use of non-living mulches which work by inhibiting the germination of weed seeds that require light; and thermal options which cause the coagulation of proteins and bursting of the protoplasm due to expansion. Both of these methods ensure the continuity of sustainable trends within the agricultural industry.

Redbond (2015) has stated and analyzed the problem correctly. However, the solution he has offered is not entirely effective as it also causes problems to the environment. Considering the publicity and increased government action towards promoting sustainability, suggesting the use of chemicals in fighting weeds is not practical in this era. Further, if Redbond chooses to stick to his proposed chemical solution, he should inform readers about the risks that accompany this choice. The proposed solution is biased and misleading because it omits a discussion on both the pros and cons of herbicide development and use. On the other hand, Upadhyaya and Blackshaw (2007) do not only address the severity of the weed problem but also provide diverse methods through which the problem can be solved.

In conclusion, it is irrefutable that uncontrollable weed growth is harmful to both the agricultural sector and the environment because it brings about an unbalanced distribution of nutrients to other plants. However, the use of herbicides has long been overtaken by both technology and environmental demands. It is, therefore, clear that Redbond (2015) has outlined the problem but has failed to consider that the modern day technological developments can assist in weed reduction without endangering entire ecosystems. Additionally, Redbond has failed to cater for the sustainability requirements of the present society.

References

Redbond, M. (2015). Maximizing weed control. Weed Management Special feature, 57(2), 80-84.

Upadhyaya, M. K., & Blackshaw, R. E. (2007). Non-chemical Weed Management: Principles, Concepts and Technology. CABI.