Which aspect does the Pest Control Products Act primarily protect?

The Pest Control Products Act primarily aims to protect human health and the environment. This legislation is designed to ensure that pesticide products are safe for human use and do not pose undue risks to the environment, including air, water, and soil quality. By focusing on the impact of pesticides on health and ecosystems, the act works to mitigate the potential hazards that can arise from pesticide use, such as pollution or harm to non-target species.

While factors like economic growth, pest management practices, food production, and agricultural profitability are important considerations in the broader context of pest control, they are secondary to the fundamental purpose of safeguarding health and environmental integrity. The act establishes strict guidelines and assessments to evaluate the safety and efficacy of pesticide products before they can be marketed and used, which is crucial for maintaining public trust and ecological balance.