What is the primary environmental concern with pesticide use?

The primary environmental concern with pesticide use centers on the potential for water and air contamination, alongside the risk of harm to wildlife and non-target species. When pesticides are applied, they can run off into water bodies or volatilize into the air, leading to contamination of these vital resources. This can affect not only aquatic organisms but also terrestrial wildlife that may come into contact with these chemicals. Furthermore, non-target species, which are beneficial insects, birds, and other wildlife, can be adversely affected by pesticide applications, leading to declines in biodiversity and disrupting ecosystems. This highlights the need for careful management and application of pesticides to mitigate these environmental risks while balancing the need for effective pest control. Other options, while relevant concerns in the context of pesticide use, do not encapsulate the broader and immediate environmental impacts as effectively as the risk of contamination and harm to non-target organisms.