What does it mean for a pesticide to have a high environmental impact?

A pesticide with a high environmental impact indicates that it may cause harm to non-target species and ecosystems. This means that while the pesticide is designed to control or eliminate specific pest populations, its toxicity can extend beyond just those organisms. Non-target species might include beneficial insects, birds, aquatic life, and various other organisms that are part of the surrounding ecosystem.

The high environmental impact often prompts concerns about biodiversity, environmental health, and the safety of drinking water sources, soil quality, and overall ecosystem balance. Understanding these implications is critical for responsible pesticide use, as it encourages applicators to consider alternatives or to use such pesticides in a way that minimizes risks to the environment.

The other options do not accurately reflect high environmental impact: a prolonged effect on the target organism may relate to effectiveness rather than environmental issues; fewer applications throughout the season suggests efficiency rather than impact; and being more effective against pests does not inherently indicate an environmental threat.