What is the least preferred method for disposing of pesticides?

The least preferred method for disposing of pesticides is burial. This method is not recommended for several reasons. Burial can pose environmental risks, such as contamination of soil and groundwater. Over time, pesticides can leach out of the burial site, especially if they are not encapsulated properly, leading to potential harm to the surrounding ecosystem and public health.

Incineration and recycling can both provide more controlled and environmentally safe options for pesticide disposal, reducing the likelihood of hazardous materials leaching into the ground. Application as instructed is also a safe method, as it ensures that pesticides are used in a manner that is effective and compliant with regulations, rather than being improperly discarded. Therefore, burial is considered the least preferred method due to its potential for long-term environmental impact.