What is it about?
Glyphosate is one of the most widely used herbicides in the world and plays an important role in agricultural production across the Tropical Andes. However, concerns about its potential effects on human health and the environment have led to increasing scientific interest in understanding its presence and impacts in the region. This review examined the available scientific evidence on glyphosate in Colombia, Ecuador, Peru, and Bolivia. The analysis revealed that, despite the widespread use of this herbicide, relatively few studies have directly measured its presence in water, soil, food, wildlife, or human populations. Existing research shows that glyphosate has been detected in several environmental and biological samples, indicating that exposure may occur through multiple pathways. The review also highlights important knowledge gaps. Monitoring efforts are uneven across countries, and limited technical and financial resources often restrict the capacity to assess contamination levels. In addition, differences in regulations and risk classifications for glyphosate-based products create challenges for consistent management and oversight throughout the region. Overall, the evidence suggests that more research and monitoring are needed to better understand the distribution of glyphosate and its possible implications for ecosystems and communities in the Tropical Andes. Strengthening scientific capacity, improving environmental surveillance, and promoting sustainable agricultural practices will be essential to support informed decision-making and protect both environmental and public health in this globally important mountain region.
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Why is it important?
The Tropical Andes is both a global biodiversity hotspot and a region of intensive pesticide use, yet surprisingly little is known about glyphosate contamination and exposure. This review brings together the available evidence from across the region, revealing where glyphosate has been detected, identifying critical knowledge gaps, and highlighting priorities for future research. By connecting environmental health, food systems, biodiversity conservation, and agricultural sustainability, the article provides a timely and accessible overview of a topic with significant implications for millions of people. It offers valuable insights for researchers, policymakers, and the public, while emphasizing the urgent need for stronger monitoring and evidence-based decision-making in one of the world's most important mountain regions.
Perspectives
In my opinion, this review shows that we still know far too little about glyphosate in the Tropical Andes, despite its widespread use in agriculture. The evidence suggests that glyphosate is present in the environment and may reach both ecosystems and people, yet monitoring remains limited. I believe this highlights the need for more research, better surveillance programs, and stronger collaboration between scientists, governments, and communities. Understanding where glyphosate occurs and how it moves through Andean environments is essential for making informed decisions that support both agricultural productivity and environmental sustainability.
David Romero-Estévez
Pontificia Universidad Católica del Ecuador
Read the Original
This page is a summary of: Glyphosate in the tropical Andes pesticide hotspot: A review, The Science of The Total Environment, February 2026, Elsevier,
DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2026.181522.
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