Pesticide use is crucial in global agriculture to control pests and increase crop yields. In Ecuador, the use of pesticides, including fungicides and insecticides, is common in crops such as potatoes and tomatoes. However, the indiscriminate use of these products has proven to have negative consequences for human health and the environment. This study investigates these risks in Ecuadorian agriculture, specifically in the Paute canton, where inadequate data exacerbates these issues. Employing a descriptive research design, data were collected through validated surveys administered to 30 farmers (9 women and 21 men) residing in various rural communities. The study also included observational methods to complement survey data. Findings reveal that farmer, predominantly with primary education, face health risks from inappropriate pesticide use. Symptoms reported include eye irritation, headaches, and nasal irritation, which vary based on education level and safety practices. The research highlights the urgent need for improved pesticide management through targeted training and sustainable practices. This study’s insights into the extent of health issues and variability in safety measures provide a basis for developing effective interventions to mitigate the health and environmental impacts of pesticide use in Paute and similar regions.

Microplastic (MP) contamination has emerged as an environmental threat not only in marine systems but increasingly in terrestrial and subsurface environments, where monitoring is often limited. This study investigates the presence, types, and distribution of microplastics in rural drinking water systems in southern Ecuador, with a focus on their association with land-based anthropogenic activities—agriculture, livestock, and local industry. A total of 169 samples were collected from 29 community-managed systems; 61.5% tested positive for MPs. Detected polymers included polyethylene terephthalate (PET), polyamide 6, polyethylene, polyvinyl chloride (PVC), and polyester. PET was the most frequently observed, reaching concentrations up to 20 particles per sample, particularly in livestock-dominated catchments. More chemically complex MPs (e.g., PVC, thermoplastics) were predominantly detected in zones with industrial influence. Statistical analysis and spatial visualization (heatmaps) revealed strong correlations between MP distribution and land use type, suggesting that rural MP contamination originates from diffuse and localized terrestrial sources. These findings highlight the potential for MPs to infiltrate groundwater systems via poorly managed soil–water interfaces in rural settings. The results support the urgent need for targeted monitoring, plastic waste control, and water infrastructure improvements to mitigate risks to groundwater and public health. Graphical abstract This graphical abstract summarizes the main findings of the study titled 'Emerging Contaminants in Rural Water: Microplastic Pollution and its Association with Agricultural, Livestock, and Industrial Activities in Ecuador'. The image illustrates the spatial correlation between microplastic occurrence and land use types (agriculture, livestock, and industry) in rural water supply systems in the province of Azuay, Ecuador. Key polymer types (e.g., PET, PVC) and contamination pathways (e.g., runoff, packaging, pipes) are shown in relation to water sources, treatment infrastructure, and public health concerns. This conceptual model reinforces the need for targeted monitoring and risk mitigation strategies in vulnerable rural areas.

Actualmente, la pandemia ocasionada por el COVID-19 ha provocado una crisis económica poniendo en riesgo la seguridad alimentaria y nutricional en toda la esfera mundial, particularmente en nuestro país debido al aislamiento provocado por el coronavirus que ha causado en la población el deterioro de bienes y servicios esenciales para la vida. La crisis ha incentivado a las personas a impulsar actividades de agricultura en las ciudades, adecuando un espacio de terreno para el cultivo de frutas y verduras en sus hogares como forma de autosustento frente al escenario de esta pandemia.