Although some exposure to pesticides is difficult to avoid, you can significantly reduce pesticides in your diet and your surroundings with a few simple steps.

Buy organic. Organically-grown food is produced without the use of toxic pesticides. It’s especially important to buy organically grown apples, bell peppers, celery, cherries, grapes, nectarines, peaches, pears, potatoes, raspberries, spinach, and strawberries. Ask your grocer to start carrying organic food if it doesn’t already.

Use alternatives to pesticides in your home and garden. There are many non-chemical methods of pest control that are safe and effective, such as using traps and barriers and removing pests physically. Focus on preventive techniques, which are most effective in the long run. For example, plug holes to keep insects from coming in the house, and grow healthy grass so that weeds don’t thrive in the lawn. Extensive resources for preventing and addressing pest problems are available here.

Advocate for pesticide reduction in your school and park. Many school districts, cities, and counties have policies to replace toxic pesticides with safer practices. The Washington Toxics Coalition can help you secure such a policy in your district, city, or county.