How do botanical insecticides generally affect the environment?

Botanical insecticides are often derived from plants and are known for their non-persistent nature in the environment. This means that they typically break down more quickly than synthetic chemical insecticides, leading to a reduced risk of long-term environmental impact. Their biodegradable nature makes them generally less harmful to non-target organisms, including beneficial insects, plants, and soil microorganisms.

The non-persistent characteristic of these insecticides also implies that they usually do not accumulate in the environment, which helps prevent potential adverse effects on ecosystems. This quality makes them appealing for use in integrated pest management (IPM) systems, where minimizing environmental harm is a priority.

While botanical insecticides may still have toxicity levels that can affect certain pests or beneficial organisms, their overall impact is often considered more environmentally friendly compared to other more persistent pesticide options.