With consumers becoming more environmentally conscious, large retailers like Wal-Mart and Target and some pest control firms are now embracing "green" practices, following the lead of some food processors that have decided to conduct business under the National Organic Program standards.
By implementing "green" practices, these industries are striving to put environmentally responsible practices into place that don't over-rely on chemicals.
Those in the pest management industry are applauding this trend toward more responsible chemical use. In fact, the industry trend over the last 20 to 25 years has moved toward practicing integrated pest management (IPM), which is at the heart of "green" practices.
What's "green"?
In the IPM arena, "green" means an environmentally responsible pest management approach that helps conserve resources, safeguard health and protect the environment.
This approach identifies pests to determine the correct control strategies, employs non-chemical prevention and control measures wherever possible, uses the least toxic pest management materials when application is necessary and provides good communication between the client and pest management professional.
The "green" commitment
Since many clients are implementing "green" into their corporate policies, "green" pest management companies are also following suit. Their written program or policy should spell out their:
• Commitment to responsible environmental stewardship and IPM.
• Intention to rely on the least toxic materials available.
• Action plans for various insect, rodent and avian pests and situations.
• Plan for continuous evaluation and provision for continuing education with the customer.
Ewell Pest Control understands that the so-called "green" pesticides may be the least toxic, but are also the least effective. They typically are slower acting and have a much shorter residual life, so that they must be applied more often to achieve lasting control. Although we can provide our customers with products such as ECOSMART brand pesticides, we most often choose other "least toxic" pesticides due to the insect pressures in our area. Our view of "Green" is in addition to the list above:
• Not forcing our customers to sign contracts for long-term pest services
• Not treating on rainy or windy days outside like many so-called green lawn care companies
• Use strict inventory so that our pesticides aren't lost, thrown away, left outside, or used carelessly
• All of our technicians are trained by our entomologist who was educated at an environmental college
• Our entomologist was the first to implement no required termite treatments for homes under 5 years
There is more to being green and environmentally responsible than just using "oils and spices"