Although pesticides have many benefits (see 'Why are pesticides used?'), their use can present risks to the environment, i.e. water, soil, plants and animals. However, these risks are taken into consideration during the pesticide approvals process. The Advisory Committee on Pesticides (ACP) advises on any matters relating to the control of pests in the UK, including the approval of pesticides, and the committee's membership includes experts on environmental impact.

The Government has a long-standing policy of minimisation of the use of pesticides – encouraging farmers and others to use pesticides in ways that will have the least negative impact.

Further information on environmental issues can be found on the PSD website at the link below.

Guidance to minimise the environmental risks from the use of pesticides is set out in the Code of Practice for the Safe Use of Plant Protection Products for England and Wales (see the PSD web link below). Pesticide products also include information on the label for their correct use and application to avoid possible damage to both the user and the environment. 'Pesticides and the Environment: a strategy for the sustainable use of plant protection products' was launched by Defra in 2006 and updated in 2008. It provides a framework for plant protection product legislation, policies and initiatives, and contributes to goals promoting sustainable development.

There is also an industry-led Voluntary Initiative to reduce the environmental impact of pesticides through increased uptake of best practice by professional users.