Due to America’s environmental consciousness rising, and increasingly stringent federal regulations, the pest extermination industry’s focus now includes Integrated Pest Management (IPM) techniques. IPM is not only safer for the environment, but safer for people and pets. Of 378 pest management companies surveyed in 2008 by Pest Control Technology magazine, two-thirds said they offered IPM services and natural pest control.
IPM focuses on environmentally-friendly prevention techniques designed to keep pests populations low, and below a thrushhold of what the customers consider comfortable. Low- or no-toxicity products may be used to control pest. In addition, elimination and control efforts focus on finding and eliminating the causes of infestations: entry points, attractants, shelter, and food. IPM favors mechanical, physical and cultural methods to control pests, but may use bio-pesticides derived from naturally-occurring materials such as animals, plants, bacteria and certain minerals.
Schools and nursing homes may be the first to insist on alternatives to hazardous chemicals. Interest in IPM is bringing a host of new environmentally-friendly pest management products to the market.
The Integrated Pest Management Institute of North America is a non-profit organization that certifies green exterminating companies. The Integrated Pest Management Institute of North America developed the Green Shield Certified (GSC) program. Look for a IPMINA certified company to make sure the company you are considering is truely using natural pest control and IPM in their program.