What is a key method used by IPM to protect the environment?

Integrated Pest Management (IPM) emphasizes environmentally sustainable practices that minimize the use of chemical pesticides. The key method of only using chemicals when necessary is central to the IPM approach. This strategy involves monitoring pest populations and determining the appropriate level of intervention needed, which often means applying chemical treatments only when pest levels exceed a predetermined threshold where they could cause significant harm to crops or the environment.

By prioritizing non-chemical methods such as cultural, mechanical, and biological controls, and reserving chemical applications for critical situations, IPM aims to reduce chemical exposure to non-target organisms, promote biodiversity, and maintain ecosystem health. This thoughtful and measured approach to pest control helps protect the environment while still managing pest populations effectively.