Question

some suggest that we could reduce the environmental impacts of agriculture by stopping the use of all pesticides. why is this unlikely? pests would be significantly reduced. food costs would increase by 50%.

Explanation:

To determine why stopping all pesticide use is unlikely, we analyze the options:

• The first option ("Pests would be significantly reduced") is incorrect because without pesticides, pests (like insects, weeds, fungi) would likely increase, damaging crops.
• The second option ("Food costs would increase by 50%") is a valid reason: Without pesticides, crop yields would drop due to pest damage. Lower supply (with constant or increasing demand) raises food production costs, which translates to higher food prices for consumers. This aligns with agricultural economics and environmental science principles about pest management trade - offs.

Answer:

B. Food costs would increase by 50%