Why might high concentrations of active ingredients in formulations lead to regulations?

High concentrations of active ingredients in pest control formulations can lead to regulations primarily because they pose a higher risk of phytotoxicity and human exposure. When active ingredients are present in elevated levels, they can cause unintended harm to non-target plants, thereby damaging the environment and agricultural systems. Phytotoxicity refers to the toxic effects that chemicals can have on plants, which can result in negative impacts on food crops, ornamental plants, and ecosystems.

Additionally, higher concentrations also increase the likelihood of heightened human exposure, as more potent chemicals can pose greater health risks for applicators, farmworkers, and the surrounding communities. This concern for human health and environmental safety drives regulatory agencies to establish guidelines and limits on the permissible levels of active ingredients in pest control products to mitigate these risks and ensure safe usage.

Thus, the answer focuses on the need for regulatory oversight in order to protect both human health and the integrity of ecosystems.