What is one of the goals of integrated pest management?

One of the primary goals of integrated pest management (IPM) is to minimize economic, health, and environmental risks associated with pest control. IPM is a holistic approach that combines various strategies for effective pest management while considering the ecological impact, human health, and the economic sustainability of agricultural practices.

By focusing on reducing risks, IPM encourages the use of a combination of methods, such as biological control, habitat manipulation, cultural practices, and, when necessary, chemical controls that are chosen carefully to minimize their negative effects. This integrated approach aims to keep pest populations at manageable levels while preserving beneficial organisms and reducing reliance on chemical pesticides, thereby promoting long-term sustainable agricultural practices.

In contrast, the other options do not align with the principles of IPM; relying solely on chemical controls, avoiding all pest control methods, or increasing pesticide usage go against the fundamental principles of sustainability and risk management that IPM seeks to achieve.