What does 'sustainable pest management' aim to achieve?

Sustainable pest management aims to achieve long-term pest control solutions that minimize environmental impact, which is essential for maintaining ecological balance and promoting biodiversity. This approach emphasizes the integration of various strategies, such as biological control, mechanical control, habitat manipulation, and the judicious use of chemical pesticides, rather than relying solely on chemicals for pest elimination. By focusing on long-term solutions, sustainable pest management ensures that pest problems are addressed in a way that does not harm the environment, human health, or beneficial organisms. This holistic perspective helps to create resilient ecosystems that can withstand pest pressures over time while reducing the reliance on potentially harmful substances.