US avocado imports cut chemical use, reduce nitrogen pollution by 10%

New United States import rules for Mexican avocados prompted growers to reduce chemical use. This change significantly lowered nitrogen pollution in nearby Mexican waterways. Stricter inspections and phytosanitary certificates encouraged more careful pest management practices. The market access incentivized cleaner production methods without halting trade. This demonstrates how trade policies can yield unexpected environmental benefits.

By TOI WORLD DESK