What is one requirement for pesticides to be registered under federal law?

Pesticides must not cause unreasonable risks to humans or the environment as a fundamental requirement for registration under federal law. This criterion ensures that all pesticides are evaluated for their safety and potential impacts before they can be sold or distributed. The emphasis on protecting human health and the environment reflects the need for a regulatory framework that balances pest control effectiveness with public safety and ecological considerations.

The process involves extensive scientific evaluation, including studies on the toxicity of the pesticide, its environmental fate, and the potential for exposure to humans and non-target organisms. This comprehensive assessment helps to ensure that approved pesticides can be used without posing significant or unacceptable risks to health or ecosystems.

This requirement is pivotal in the regulatory landscape, as it underpins the principles of risk assessment and management that govern pesticide use in agricultural and non-agricultural settings.