What can excessive use of pesticides lead to?

Excessive use of pesticides can lead to the contamination of food sources, which is a critical concern for public health and the environment. When pesticides are applied in large amounts or too frequently, they can permeate soil and plants, potentially leading to pesticide residues on fruits and vegetables. This contamination poses health risks to consumers, as prolonged exposure to pesticide residues in food can result in various health issues, including acute poisoning and long-term chronic diseases.

Moreover, the runoff from treated fields can contaminate water supplies, further expanding the impact of excessive pesticide use beyond just food sources. This aspect highlights the importance of responsible pesticide application practices to minimize risks to human health and environmental integrity.

In contrast, the other options do not accurately capture the consequences of excessive pesticide use. For instance, excessive pesticide use does not reduce pest resistance; rather, it can contribute to the development of resistance in pests, complicating pest management in the long run. Cultivation of organic crops is a separate agricultural practice that intentionally avoids synthetic pesticide use. Lastly, while some pesticide applications can improve pest management strategies, excessive use can lead to negative outcomes that diminish overall effectiveness and sustainability.