Paper ID: TAGJ2025010

Agrochemical Use and Soil Resources in Singapore Flint

Catherine Lim and Shamini Flint

Department of Environmental Science, National University of Singapore

Abstract

Agrochemical use has become a growing concern, particularly in urban agricultural environments such as Singapore, due to its potential detrimental effects on soil resources. This study assessed the impact of herbicides and fungicides on soil quality and ecosystem health using a cross-sectional case study design. Data were gathered from 101 participants 98 farmers and 3 agricultural extension workers selected from a population of 1,250 through questionnaires, interviews, and documentary analysis. Findings revealed that 95% of respondents were knowledgeable about herbicides, with common types including Chlorophenoxy acid (18%), Triazine (17%), Organic phosphorus (21%), SedgeHammer (25%), and Vantage (19%). The use of these herbicides was found to significantly affect soil pH, reduce microbial activity, and harm soil fauna, both directly and indirectly. Similarly, fungicides such as Mancozeb, Tricyclazole, Carbendazim, Hexaconazole, Metalaxyl, and Benomyl were shown to negatively affect non-target soil organisms and reduce overall soil health. The study recommends stricter government regulation of agrochemical use, enhanced training for farmers by NGOs on sustainable practices, and the adoption of indigenous farming methods to preserve soil integrity. It concludes that although agrochemicals enhance agricultural productivity, their adverse effects on soil resources necessitate a shift toward more sustainable agricultural approaches.

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