What represents an increased risk of toxic chemical exposure due to climate change?

The selection of increased need for pesticides as representing an increased risk of toxic chemical exposure due to climate change is based on several interrelated factors. As climate change progresses, shifts in temperature and weather patterns lead to changes in pest behavior and agricultural practices. Warmer temperatures can result in longer growing seasons and increased pest populations, as many pests thrive in these conditions.

Farmers may respond to these challenges by increasing the use of pesticides to protect their crops from burgeoning pest populations. This heightened application of pesticides can lead to greater environmental exposure for both agricultural workers and surrounding communities. Moreover, when extreme weather events occur as a result of climate change, such as heavier rainfalls or flooding, the runoff can lead to contaminated water systems, further exacerbating the exposure to these toxic substances.

This relationship between climate change and the increased need for pesticides highlights the broader implications of environmental changes on health and safety, illustrating how climate factors can drive the reliance on chemical solutions that carry risks of exposure.