About Us
At CPAM (Community Pesticide Action Monitoring), we employ a Participatory Action Research approach to document and raise awareness about the impacts of pesticide use on human health and the environment. Our process is deeply rooted in community engagement, empowering local members to not only conduct research but also to organize and take action to address these issues. Through CPAM, communities learn how to record the harmful effects of pesticide use, become more aware of the associated hazards, and gain the skills needed to push for change.
Our goal is to reduce pesticide use, promote sustainable agricultural practices, and pressure governments to implement stronger regulations and international conventions on pesticides. CPAM fosters an interconnection between organizing, action, and advocacy, driving the changes necessary for healthier environments and communities.
As part of our work, we use a comprehensive CPAM Questionnaire, which consists of six key areas:
- Pesticide Use and Effects
- Incident Report Form
- Retail Questionnaire
- Documenting Advertisements
- Corporate Profile
- Children’s Exposure to Pesticides
These questionnaires are carried out through field surveys, with interviews conducted in local languages to ensure accuracy and relevance. To streamline the data collection process, we have developed a CPAM mobile application, built on an Android platform. The app simplifies data collection, storage, and analysis, with three main components:
- API (Application Program Interface): Manages interaction between graphical user interface (GUI) components.
- Middle Layer: A management system that collects, stores, and hosts data, including messaging and resources.
- Android Mobile Application: Allows for surveys to be conducted, while collecting media such as photos, audio, and video.
With a secure user registration and sign-up process, our mobile app ensures that all data collected is encrypted and transmitted safely. Only authorized administrators have access to view this sensitive information, maintaining the integrity and confidentiality of the data.
To further our impact, PANAP (Pesticide Action Network Asia and the Pacific) conducts CPAM training for staff, network partners, and community leaders. These three-day training sessions include comprehensive instruction on research, monitoring, and documenting pesticide use, as well as hands-on guidance in using the CPAM mobile application. Over the years, partners like SRED have greatly benefited from these trainings, which have proven to be a valuable tool in empowering communities to monitor and address pesticide-related health and environmental risks.
By working together, we aim to create healthier, more sustainable communities.
