Integrated Pest Management is best described as a strategy that:

Integrated Pest Management (IPM) is best described as a strategy that uses a wide range of pest control methods. This approach is designed to manage pest populations in a way that minimizes harm to the environment, human health, and non-target organisms while effectively controlling the pests.

IPM recognizes that no single pest control method is universally effective for all situations or all types of pests. Therefore, it advocates for a combination of techniques, including biological control, habitat manipulation, cultural practices, mechanical control, and, when necessary, the prudent use of chemical pesticides. By employing multiple methods, IPM aims to reduce pest populations to acceptable levels rather than seeking to eliminate them entirely. This multi-faceted approach allows for more sustainable pest management practices that can adapt to changing conditions and reduce the likelihood of pest resistance developing against any particular control method.

In contrast, relying on a single method for pest control can lead to limited effectiveness and increased pest resistance. Focusing exclusively on organic methods may ignore useful and necessary pest control options. Aiming for the complete eradication of all pests is not pragmatic since many pests play valuable roles in ecosystems, and complete eradication can lead to unintended ecological consequences.