Mapping pesticide residues in soil for China: Characteristics and risks

The widespread application of pesticides in China has led to the accumulation of residues in soil. However, few regional studies have fully elucidated the characteristics of pesticide residues in soil (PRS) and the associated risks to the ecosystem and human health on a national level. Therefore, this study aims to compile a dataset on PRS in China from 2006 to 2020 and analyze the interactions and impacts between PRS and the environment. The average concentration of PRS in China was 243.96 μg/kg which was lower than the levels reported in Euro-Americans and other nations. This study revealed PRS in China predominantly originates from organochlorine pesticide residues, with DDTs and HCHs being significant contributors. Despite the high intensity of pesticide application in the Southeast China, PRS concentrations were comparable to those in the Northeast, due to environmental factors that favor pesticide degradation in the Southeast. Both legacy and in-use pesticides were transported by surface runoff or air current, resulting in their accumulation in soil of the lower Yangtze River basin or the piedmont soil of Qinling Mountains, respectively. The average soil environment carrying capacity of PRS in China was −69.5 kg. The ecological risk contributed by PRS in China was mainly at a negligible level. Carcinogenic risks of PRS to adults (4.6 ×10−4) and children (6 ×10−4) exceeded the tolerable thresholds (10−5) by a small margin. [Display omitted] •The dataset of pesticide residues in soil (PRS) was developed.•Organochlorine pesticide residues were significant contributors to PRS.•Increased soil moisture, temperature and acidity lower PRS levels.•Pesticides in watershed soil migrate downstream through surface runoff.•Pesticides in the soil deposited in piedmont soil through airflow transport.