Effective pest management prioritizes which of the following?

Effective pest management prioritizes environmental safety because it emphasizes the responsible use of pest control methods to minimize harm to the environment and non-target organisms while managing pest populations effectively. This approach considers the ecological balance, human health, and the sustainability of pest management practices over the long term. By prioritizing environmental safety, pest management strategies aim to protect beneficial insects, soil health, water quality, and overall ecosystem integrity.

In pest management, focusing on environmental safety often involves integrated pest management (IPM) practices, which utilize a combination of biological, cultural, mechanical, and chemical methods tailored to specific pest issues. This holistic approach ensures that pest control does not adversely affect the environment while still achieving effective control of pest populations.