What defines a pesticide?

A pesticide is defined as a substance used specifically to destroy, repel, or control pests, including insects, weeds, fungi, and other organisms that can be harmful to crops, livestock, or human health. This definition encompasses a broad range of chemical and biological substances designed for pest management in agricultural settings, as well as in residential and public environments.

Understanding the role of pesticides is crucial because they are integral to modern agriculture, contributing to increased food production and protection against pest-related losses. The regulation and use of pesticides are important for ensuring environmental safety and public health, which emphasizes the need to distinguish them from substances that serve different purposes, such as promoting plant growth, enhancing soil fertility, or improving water quality. These other choices describe substances that do not fall under the definition of a pesticide, as their primary function is not related to pest control.