What does "environmentally safe" imply for a pesticide?

When referring to "environmentally safe" in the context of a pesticide, it specifically means that the pesticide is formulated to minimize harm to non-target organisms and ecosystems. This involves consideration of how the pesticide interacts with the environment, including its potential impact on beneficial insects, wildlife, plants, and aquatic systems. An environmentally safe pesticide aims to control pests effectively while reducing negative effects on the surrounding environment, ensuring the sustainability of ecosystems and public health.

The aspect of being effective against all pests does not align with the concept of being environmentally safe, as an effective pesticide might still pose risks to non-target species. Similarly, while being inexpensive and easy to apply adds to a pesticide's usability, it does not guarantee safety for the environment. Likewise, a pesticide having no residual effects might suggest it breaks down quickly in the environment, but this alone does not encompass the overall environmental safety of a product. Therefore, the focus on minimizing harm to non-target organisms and ecosystems distinctly defines what it means for a pesticide to be environmentally safe.