The use of agrochemical inputs in productive and sustainable tropical crop production systems of rice, common beans and maize

Selected examples of specific agricultural research are discussed to highlight the development of sustainable agricultural production systems. A clear differentiation between plant protectants and fertilizers is provided. The focus is on Latin American tropics and sub-tropics and on three staples food crops (rice, beans, and maize) and concentrates on the work of the international agricultural research centers working with national partners and advanced public sector research laboratories in developed and in developing countries. Research directed mainly at the small farmer sector is stressed, particularly in the case of rice, beans, and maize. (CIAT)