Which of the following is a reason to practice IPM?

• A. Keep a balanced ecosystem
• B. Promote a healthy environment
• C. Maximize pesticide sales
• D. Minimize labor cost

Answer: (B)

Integrated pest management aims to control pests while safeguarding people, wildlife, and the broader environment by using a thoughtful mix of monitoring, thresholds, and multiple control methods. The reason to practice IPM is to promote a healthy environment: by avoiding unnecessary pesticide applications and choosing targeted, low-risk strategies, we reduce chemical residues, protect water quality, and preserve beneficial insects and other wildlife. This leads to a healthier, more resilient ecosystem. Keeping a balanced ecosystem can result from IPM, but the central goal is environmental health. Arguments about maximizing pesticide sales or minimizing labor costs don’t align with IPM’s purpose of reducing environmental and health risks.