Example environmental science dissertation topic 5:

Broadleaf weed control for sorghum growers in the UK : Perceptions and reality

Herbicides have, over the last sixty years, dramatically changed the way in which weeds are controlled by farmers. However, as the organic movement and intensive testing has shown, such uses are not without risk to human health. An example is that of atrazine, a herbicide used for over 50 years, but now withdrawn from use in the EU and Australia because of clear evidence of mutations and carcinogenic qualities. This thesis interviews ten farmers who previously employed atrazine in broadleaf weed management, and determines whether they believe the replacements for atrazine are sufficient. It also investigates the threat that the withdrawal of atrazine poses to successful food production in the UK.

Suggested initial topic reading:

• Appleby, P.A. (2005). ‘A history of weed control in the United States and Canada: A sequel’. Weed Science, Vol. 53(6), pp. 762-768.
• Beckie, H.J. (2006). ‘Herbicide-resistant weeds: Management tactics and practices1’, Weed Technology, Vol. 20(3), pp. 793-814.
• LeBaron, H.M., McFarland, J.E. and Burnside, O.C. (eds) (2008). The triazine herbicides: 50 years revolutionizing agriculture. Oxford: Elsevier.