The widespread use of synthetic pesticides in modern agriculture has generated significant environmental concerns regarding their toxicity, persistence, and ecological impacts. This review examines the multifaceted environmental consequences of pesticide use, including mechanisms of toxicity affecting non-target organisms, bioaccumulation processes leading to biomagnification through food webs, and contamination pathways through soil, water, and air systems. Pesticides demonstrate diverse toxic effects on soil microorganisms, aquatic ecosystems, wildlife populations, and human health through various exposure routes. Persistent organic pollutants such as DDT exemplify how lipophilic pesticides accumulate in fatty tissues and concentrate at higher trophic levels, causing population-level effects in top predators. Environmental transport mechanisms, including runoff, leaching, and spray drift distribute pesticides far from application sites, creating widespread contamination of natural resources. Alternative pest management strategies offer promising solutions to reduce environmental impacts while maintaining agricultural productivity. Biopesticides derived from natural sources exhibit reduced persistence, target specificity, and lower toxicity compared to synthetic alternatives, though limitations, including environmental sensitivity and higher costs, constrain adoption. Integrated Pest Management approaches combine biological, cultural, physical, and chemical controls to minimize pesticide reliance while achieving effective pest suppression. Mitigation strategies encompass precision agriculture technologies, bioremediation techniques, and regulatory frameworks that promote sustainable practices. The transition toward environmentally responsible pest management requires coordinated efforts integrating technological innovation, policy support, and stakeholder education to balance agricultural needs with ecosystem protection.
