What are two consequences of improper pesticide use?

The choice highlighting environmental contamination and adverse health effects on humans and wildlife is accurate because improper pesticide use can lead to significant and harmful repercussions for both the ecosystem and public health. When pesticides are misapplied, they may enter soil, water systems, or air, causing contamination that can affect not only targeted pests but also non-target organisms including beneficial insects, plants, and wildlife. This contamination can disrupt local ecosystems and bioaccumulate in food chains, leading to long-term ecological damage.

Additionally, exposure to improperly used pesticides can result in acute or chronic health issues for humans. This may range from mild symptoms such as skin irritation and headaches to more severe effects like respiratory problems or even long-term illnesses, depending on the chemical nature of the pesticide and the level of exposure.

The other options reflect consequences of improper pesticide use but don't capture the broad and severe implications of environmental and health impacts as clearly as this choice does. Increased pest populations or higher costs may occur as a result of pest control failures, and reduced effectiveness may lead to more frequent applications; however, these do not encompass the deeper, often more dangerous outcomes associated with health and environmental risks. The emphasis on ecology and human health here underscores the importance of responsible pesticide application practices in safeguarding both human and environmental