At a time when the world's intensive hi-tech agricultural system is being criticised for its health and environmental impacts, pesticides are increasingly under scrutiny. Pesticides Action Network UK is part of an international network of national and community organizations monitoring the development and marketing of pesticides, dialoguing with the companies involved in order to minimize possible damage to people and nature, and campaigning for tighter controls over pesticide marketing and for new bio-friendly approaches to agricultural production. This PAN UK book brings together in an up-to-date and comprehensive manner the experience and findings of many different scientists, farmers' organizations and PAN members around the world.

The particular focus is on women's health. In many societies, most work in the fields is done by women rather than men. As a result, not only are more women than men often exposed to pesticides, but the toxic effects impact on women in specific physiological ways. The information in this volume documents this and makes clear the urgent need for more systematic attention to gender issues in pesticide and sustainable agriculture-related research and action.

Of particular practical usefulness are those sections which examine what progress has been made by governments and corporations in improving safety and safe use of pesticides; and how local communities, and in particular women, have fought back against indiscriminate and unsafe pesticide use, and pursued alternatives. A tool kit points readers to relevant action methodologies and sources of further information.