Which of the following environmental impacts does IPM aim to reduce?

Integrated Pest Management (IPM) is designed to reduce the environmental impacts associated with pest control methods, particularly focusing on minimizing pesticide use and its consequences. The primary aim of IPM is to provide sustainable pest management practices that effectively control pest populations while reducing risks to human health and the environment.

One of the significant issues with pesticide use is runoff, which can contaminate water bodies and harm non-target species such as beneficial insects, aquatic life, and other wildlife. By implementing IPM strategies, such as using biological control methods, crop rotation, and habitat manipulation, the reliance on chemical pesticides is decreased. This results in a lower likelihood of harmful chemicals entering ecosystems and adversely affecting non-target organisms.

In contrast to the other options, while increased biodiversity, soil erosion, and waste production are important considerations in agricultural practices, the specific aim of IPM is particularly centered on reducing pesticide runoff and protecting non-target species. This focus helps to foster a healthier ecosystem, benefiting agriculture and the environment simultaneously.