Gender and Pest Management in the Ecuadorian Andes

Abstract

This research was conducted to assess the intersection of gender and pesticide knowledge to identify gendered dynamics that may prove important to consider when implementing an Integrated Pest Management (IPM) program. Key findings include knowledge being associated with task undertaken, not necessarily the gender of a person. Often, due to social conceptions of appropriate gender roles, similar knowledge may be associated with a certain gender because they are engaging in similar tasks, but it is not their sex or gender that inherently gives them such knowledge. Therefore, knowledge generally associated with women can be associated with men if they are engaging in similar work. Additionally, triangulation of data through using various research methodologies, and interdisciplinary research are imperative for developing comprehensive research or development programs. Finally, even people who are concerned with the negative human and environmental health effects of pesticides may not be using them in a cautious manner. Outside factors such as market sale, education and income level must be taken into account when assessing why pesticides are used and the best methods to introduce an alternative pest control method, such as IPM.