Application of the theory of planned behavior to model the intention and behavior of tomato growers in pesticide exposure

Widespread and indiscriminate use of pesticides has become one of the most important environmental and public health problems around the world. This study was conducted with the aim of applying the theory of planned behavior model to investigate the knowledge, attitude, and behavior of tomato growers in the face of pesticides in agricultural lands located in Kurdistan province, western Iran. We included 300 tomato growers in this study and they filled up a standard TPB questionnaire containing questions about basic information, knowledge, attitude and behavior about pesticides and their actions for disposing of the residual spray solution, washing place of pesticide sprayer, and the disposal of water from washing the equipment. Most of the respondents, 86.7 %, had not participated in promotional classes on how to dispose of the residual solution. Approximately 46.15, 38.46, and 15.39 % of pesticides contained moderately toxic, slightly toxic and practically non-toxic compounds, respectively. More than two-thirds (89 %) of the tomato growers stated that they leave the water from washing the equipment in the field. In addition, among the three variables of TPB, attitudes had the highest score (3.38), which indicated the positive to relatively neutral attitude of farmers towards the safe use of pesticides. These findings can be useful for planners and environmental organizations to make effective interventions to reduce environmental pollution caused by pesticides. Since the incorrect use of pesticides is one of the important environmental and health factors, education and awareness programs can help farmers to consider the correct use of pesticides and environmental protection more.