Structural Pest Control Applicator Practice Exam

What is a method to prevent surplus pesticide waste?

1. Buy only the amount of pesticide you need

2. Store pesticides for future use

3. Apply more pesticides than necessary

4. Dispose of unused pesticides in regular trash

The correct answer is: Buy only the amount of pesticide you need

Purchasing only the amount of pesticide needed is an effective method for preventing surplus pesticide waste. This approach not only ensures that you have sufficient quantities for your immediate needs but also helps avoid the accumulation of unused pesticides that may expire or become ineffective over time. By estimating the required amount accurately before purchasing, applicators can minimize the risk of excess waste, which contributes to environmental concerns and can create hazards if not managed properly. In contrast, storing pesticides for future use can lead to complications such as improper storage conditions, which may affect the integrity and safety of the product over time. Applying more pesticides than necessary is not only wasteful but also potentially harmful to the environment and local ecosystems. Disposing of unused pesticides in regular trash poses serious environmental risks and is often illegal due to the hazardous nature of these chemicals. Thus, purchasing only what is needed is the most responsible and effective strategy to mitigate pesticide waste.