What does the toxicity of a pesticide refer to?

The toxicity of a pesticide specifically refers to its capacity to cause injury to living organisms, including humans, animals, and plants. This definition encompasses both the harmful effects it can have when exposure occurs and the potential for adverse effects at various exposure levels. Understanding toxicity is crucial for assessing the safety and potential health risks associated with pesticide use, as it helps determine how harmful a product might be in different contexts.

The effectiveness in pest control relates to how well a pesticide can eliminate or manage pest populations, which is different from its toxicity. Environmental impact assessment focuses on broader ecological consequences, considering factors like biodiversity and ecosystem health, rather than the specific capacity of a pesticide to cause injury. The cost of application pertains to the economic factors involved in using a pesticide, which is unrelated to its toxicological properties.