From application in the fields to dispersion in the atmosphere: A narrative review on airborne pesticides and their monitoring in France

Pesticides, widely used to enhance agricultural productivity, are increasingly monitored and consequently detected in the atmosphere, raising concerns for environmental and human health. This narrative review summarizes current knowledge on the main pathways of atmospheric contamination, namely spray drift, volatilization, and wind erosion, and the key physicochemical, environmental, and operational factors that govern pesticide dispersion. It also evaluates modeling approaches and monitoring initiatives, with a particular focus on France, where recent studies have revealed regional patterns, persistence of banned substances, and the influence of agricultural practices. The review underscores the need for more comprehensive models, integrated monitoring frameworks, and targeted policies to better assess and mitigate airborne pesticide pollution. • This review addresses airborne pesticide contamination with a focus on France, covering emission pathways, influencing factors, monitoring, modeling, and regulatory aspects • Key emission pathways: spray drift, volatilization, wind erosion • Main factors influencing airborne pesticide transfer: physico-chemical (vapor pressure, Henry’s law constant), environmental (wind speed, soil texture), operator practices (droplet size), with high interaction between human and environmental factors • Current monitoring of airborne pesticide in France: seasonal peaks, regional variability, persistence of banned substances (lindane) • Fragmentation of modelling and monitoring approaches, lack of comprehensive model • Lack of air quality guidelines.