In terms of farming practice, what does 'integrated pest management' primarily aim to achieve?

Integrated pest management (IPM) primarily aims to promote sustainable pest control by utilizing a combination of strategies to manage pest populations in an environmentally friendly and economically viable manner. This approach emphasizes the use of biological, cultural, mechanical, and chemical practices to maintain pest levels below those that cause economic damage. The focus is on long-term prevention and pest control while minimizing reliance on chemical pesticides, which can have harmful effects on the environment and human health.

This sustainable method not only involves monitoring and understanding pest life cycles but also takes into account the ecosystem and surrounding environment. By promoting natural pest predators and using crop rotation or resistant plant varieties, IPM aims to create a balanced approach to pest management that reduces the need for synthetic chemicals, ensuring a healthier farm system and less environmental impact.