Which of the following could be a consequence of improper pesticide storage?

Improper pesticide storage can lead to a decreased effectiveness of the pesticide. This occurs because many pesticides are sensitive to environmental factors such as temperature, humidity, and light. When stored incorrectly, they may break down or degrade, resulting in a loss of potency. For example, when pesticides are exposed to excessive heat or freezing temperatures, their chemical composition can alter, making them less effective at controlling pests.

On the other hand, improved application efficiency and enhanced pest control capabilities would not be consequences of improper storage, as those outcomes typically rely on the pesticide maintaining its intended properties. Additionally, a decrease in environmental regulations does not connect directly with the consequences of improper pesticide storage and would not impact the functionality of the products themselves. Therefore, the significant consequence of decreased effectiveness upon improper storage highlights the importance of maintaining proper storage conditions for pesticides to ensure they work as intended.