What is a consequence of improper pesticide storage?

Improper pesticide storage can lead to a loss of effectiveness for several reasons. When pesticides are not stored as recommended—such as being exposed to extreme temperatures, moisture, or direct sunlight—the active ingredients can degrade or break down. This degradation can result in reduced potency, making the pesticide less effective when applied to target pests. Additionally, improper storage can lead to chemical reactions that alter the formulation, further diminishing its effectiveness.

Moreover, pesticides that are diluted or contaminated due to improper storage conditions may not perform as intended, leading to inadequate pest control. Ensuring that pesticides are stored in recommended conditions—cool, dry, and away from light—helps maintain their efficacy and ensures that applicators can rely on them when needed. While increased effectiveness, enhanced shelf-life, and improved safety are desirable outcomes, they are not realistic consequences of poor storage practices.