What is the primary goal of pesticide laws and regulations?

The primary goal of pesticide laws and regulations is to protect the environment. These laws are designed to ensure that pesticides are used safely and responsibly, minimizing their potential harmful effects on ecosystems, wildlife, and human health. By setting standards for pesticide application, registration, and use, these regulations help prevent contamination of air, water, and soil.

Regulatory frameworks also promote integrated pest management practices that aim to reduce reliance on chemical control measures, thereby protecting beneficial organisms and maintaining biodiversity. Ultimately, the emphasis is on ensuring that pesticide use contributes to sustainable agricultural practices while safeguarding environmental quality.

While the other options touch on relevant aspects of pesticide management, they do not capture the primary intent of regulatory measures. Increasing pesticide use could lead to adverse effects, and promoting sales or agricultural exports does not necessarily align with the environmental and health safety aims of these regulations.