What is a restricted-use pesticide?

A restricted-use pesticide is defined as a pesticide that requires special certification to purchase and apply, primarily due to its potential risks to human health and the environment. These pesticides may pose a higher level of danger compared to general-use pesticides, which can be sold to and used by the public without such restrictions.

The regulations surrounding these pesticides are designed to ensure that only trained and certified individuals handle them, as improper use can lead to significant adverse effects. This restriction is part of a broader strategy to manage pesticide safety, protect non-target organisms, and minimize the risks associated with pesticide application.

The other options describe situations or categories of pesticides that do not align with the concept of restricted-use. For instance, a pesticide deemed safe for general public use without restrictions does not require special certification, which contrasts with the nature of restricted-use pesticides. Similarly, indicating that a pesticide is approved only for agricultural use or can only be used in commercial settings does not capture the key element of certification and the associated risks that necessitate restriction.