What is the primary goal of integrated pest management?

The primary goal of integrated pest management (IPM) is to enhance economic and environmental safety. This approach emphasizes the importance of balancing effective pest control with the consideration of the ecological impact and economic implications. IPM involves using a combination of biological, cultural, physical, and chemical methods to manage pest populations in a way that minimizes risks to human health and the environment.

Rather than relying solely on chemical pesticides, which can pose various risks, IPM promotes sustainable practices that are designed to prevent pest problems while reducing the likelihood of pests developing resistance to treatments. The strategy integrates different management techniques tailored to specific pest situations, always aiming for the least harmful and most effective options. This holistic framework addresses pest management in a comprehensive manner, focusing on long-term solutions rather than immediate eradication, which contributes to overall ecological balance and economic viability.