Final answer:
Pesticides should be used as a last resort for pest control due to potential environmental and non-target impact concerns. Biological control, through the use of natural predators and other living organisms, is a more sustainable and ecologically favorable approach. Genomics technology can also enhance plant resistance as a non-chemical method for pest management.
Step-by-step explanation:
The use of pesticides should be considered a last resort for controlling pest damage. When other ecologically based control measures, such as genetic resistance, biological controls like introducing natural predators, sanitation, and quarantine, are not adequate, pesticides can be used. However, due to potential environmental disruption and non-target impacts, including human health and economic factors, it's essential that pesticides are selected and applied in a manner that minimizes environmental harm. This means using products that are non-persistent and targeting applications as precisely as possible.
Among the other options presented, biological control refers to the use of living organisms, such as predators, parasites, or diseases, to control pest populations, which can be an effective and cost-efficient long-term solution with minimal environmental impact. By comparison, pesticides can be costly and potentially harmful to non-target species and ecosystems.
It is important to consider all available pest control options and their impacts before resorting to chemical pesticides. Non-chemical methods might include strategies like crop rotation, intercropping, and the utilization of pest-resistant crop varieties that are developed through genomics technology. Agricultural practices that contribute to pest management and environmental wellbeing should be preferred.