What is the main goal of sustainable pest management practices?

The main goal of sustainable pest management practices is to balance pest control with environmental health. This approach emphasizes the importance of managing pest populations in a way that minimizes harm to non-target organisms and the ecosystem as a whole. Sustainable practices encourage the use of integrated pest management (IPM) strategies, which combine biological, cultural, physical, and chemical methods to control pests effectively while also conserving beneficial species and resources.

This focus on balance ensures that pest control measures are effective and long-lasting, rather than relying solely on chemical treatments, which can lead to resistance, environmental contamination, and harm to beneficial organisms. By aiming for a holistic approach, sustainable pest management supports the health of agricultural systems and ecosystems while also considering economic viability.

In contrast, maximizing chemical usage would disregard the potential for environmental harm and pest resistance. The aim to eliminate all pests completely is impractical and often leads to ecological imbalance since some pests play important roles in the ecosystem. Focusing solely on profit maximization might lead to unsustainable agricultural practices that compromise long-term environmental health and biodiversity.