Champions Residential Inspections SAE Practice Test

The environmental concern that arises in areas where Chlordane was previously used is soil toxicity. Chlordane is a synthetic pesticide that was widely employed for agricultural and residential pest control. After its ban in the United States due to its persistent nature and potential health risks, it became clear that its residues could remain in the soil for many years, posing risks to both plants and animals. Soil toxicity refers to the harmful effects these residues can have on soil organisms, including beneficial microbes and invertebrates, which are crucial for maintaining healthy soil ecology.

Increased soil toxicity can also affect plant growth, water quality, and the overall ecosystem, leading to long-term impacts on agriculture and land use. The other options do not directly relate to the specific hazards associated with the historical use of Chlordane. For instance, increased humidity is a climatic phenomenon, while water scarcity pertains to a lack of water resources, and availability of pest-free zones does not address the residual contamination from Chlordane. Thus, soil toxicity is the most relevant and significant environmental concern stemming from its past usage.