What must the EPA consider when registering a pesticide for use?

• A. Whether the intended use will not create an unreasonable risk.
• B. Whether the product is aesthetically pleasing.
• C. Whether the company has a large marketing budget.
• D. Whether the product is popular with growers.

Answer: (A)

When the EPA registers a pesticide, the key idea is to ensure that its use as labeled will not create an unreasonable risk to human health or the environment. This involves a careful risk assessment: evaluating the pesticide’s toxicity, how people and the environment might be exposed, how it behaves in the environment, potential residues on food, and effects on non-target organisms. The EPA also weighs the benefits of the product versus its risks, taking into account economic and social factors, to decide if the overall use is acceptable. The other factors listed—whether the product is just aesthetically pleasing, the company’s marketing budget, or whether growers like it—do not determine whether a registration is allowed. So the best answer is the one that states the EPA must determine that the intended use will not create an unreasonable risk.