Das Projekt "Reducing human health and environmental risks from pesticide use: Integrating decision-making with spatial risk assessment models The case of Vereda la Hoya, Colombia" wird vom Umweltbundesamt gefördert und von Universität Zürich, Geographisches Institut durchgeführt. The main goal of the proposed research is to contribute to interdisciplinary research in the area of sustainable rural development. The project will develop a model for deriving and assessing strategies for reducing the human health and environmental risks from pesticide use. First, we will analyze farmers' perceptions on the potential risks of pesticide application and estimate the relevance of the variables determining their decision-making. In particular, we will estimate the relevance of variables such as traditions, and cultural values for farmers' behavior, which have rarely been integrated in earlier investigations. Second, we will adapt and further develop current risk assessment models to include occupational exposure and spatial distribution. One major challenge will be to make the model applicable within commonly encountered risk boundary conditions of less developed countries such as low amount of resources and low data availability. Third, we will develop together with farmers and regional stakeholders consistent scenarios at a regional level considering the potential national developments. Finally, we will develop a simulation model consisting of behavioral and risk assessment components that will facilitate the evaluation of risk reducing strategies and measures defined by farmers, as well as regional and national policy makers. First steps towards the implementation of the best-rated strategies and measures will be taken.