Which agency is responsible for ensuring that registered pesticides meet safety standards to protect human health and the environment?

The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) is the agency responsible for ensuring that registered pesticides meet safety standards to protect human health and the environment. The EPA evaluates the potential effects of pesticides on humans, non-target organisms, and the ecosystem as a whole. This process includes risk assessments and the establishment of regulations that govern the registration, distribution, and application of pesticides to ensure they can be used safely.

The EPA's role is crucial because it allows for the use of chemical pest control while minimizing risks associated with pesticide exposure, thus safeguarding not only public health but also preserving environmental integrity. This is pivotal in the wider context of agricultural practices and urban pest management, where the balance between effective pest control and safety is crucial.

In contrast, other agencies like the FBI and CIA are focused on national security and law enforcement, while the USDA primarily oversees agricultural production, food safety, and rural development, making them less relevant to the specific responsibility of pesticide safety regulation.