Since the 1950s, there has been a growing awareness of the harm that certain chemicals can do to human health and the environment in general. In very recent times, there has been a lot of media attention directed toward glyphosate. This particular Chemical has been focused on as part of the legal cases directed at Roundup in the U.S. courts.

While glyphosate is meant to kill weeds, it is believed to also weaken the immune systems of insects that are needed to create healthy ecosystems, as well as the immune systems of humans.

However, many businesses involved with Pest control have started to become more aware of the chemicals used in their products, as have their customers. For instance, piperonyl butoxide, which the EPA in the U.S. lists as carcinogenic, is used far less now. But how effective can pest control be with greener solutions?

Can Pests Be Controlled in an Eco-Friendly Manner?

A growing trend in the pest control industry is for businesses to advertise their green credentials and services. Some firms advertise as being 100% green, while others offer eco-friendly options alongside more traditional pest control.

For instance, bed bug removal services often involve heat treatment today. This is completely harmless to the environment and people. It is also far more effective than chemical treatments when carried out by professionals.

Diatomaceous earth is listed by OSHA as a regulated substance, but this bed-bug-killing compound also has some green qualities, including being sustainable, organic and natural, as well as removing carbon dioxide from the atmosphere.

Yet, some pest control methods are still used that risk harm to humans, animals and the environment.

What Are the Risks of Pesticides to Health and the Planet?

Toxic chemicals are used across the world in the manufacture of pesticides. These chemicals include atrazine, methyl bromide, and in some countries, DDT.

The Canadian Environmental Protection Act has Dichlorodiphenyltrichloroethane, or DDT, on its toxic substance list. The U.S. banned DDT back in 1972 and the U.K. in 1986, after the discovery that it harmed wildlife and humans.

Some chemicals used in pesticides can cause ailments ranging from dizziness to neurological disorders and cancer. The production and use of pesticides can lead to chemicals leaching into the ground, as well as streams and rivers.

These chemicals harm wildlife and can harm plants they weren’t meant to target, in addition to killing beneficial insects such as bees.

The most dangerous chemicals used in pesticides are commonly found in the agricultural industry rather than in commercial pest control, although some methods such as fumigation are dangerous to humans.

What Methods of Pest Control are Environmentally Friendly?

There are some eco-friendly ways to deter mosquitos, but many household Pests are hardier and trickier to remove or eliminate.

Live Traps for Rats

These humane traps are used to lure a rat with bait and then trap it for release into the wild. Some traps boast up to 95% efficiency rates.

Bed Bug Heat Treatment

As mentioned already, this eco-friendly method of eradicating bed bugs uses high temperatures and steam to achieve up to 100% efficiency. When done properly, just one treatment can be enough.

Microbial Insecticides

Used in agriculture or gardening, this is a more environmentally friendly option than many other solutions. This solution uses microorganisms to target specific pests that destroy plants and crops. There is no problem with toxicity or any danger to beneficial insects.

Prevention

Perhaps the most eco-friendly way to stop pests in their tracks is to prevent them from setting up base in your home or business to start with. Sealing cracks, removing food sources and generally making your property less welcoming are great forms of pest control.

What Natural Pest Control Methods Can You Use in the Home?

Gardeners know all about the problems of pests. Many gardening enthusiasts use the tricks of the trade for pests and employ nature’s own tools, such as peppermint and kaolin clay. Getting rid of pests such as cockroaches in the home can present a significantly tougher challenge than a few slugs, though.

Baking Soda for Cockroaches

One very safe way to get rid of cockroaches is to use baking soda. It works fast and is absolutely harmless to pets and children, unless rather large quantities are consumed.

Chili Powder for Ants

Ants aren’t harmful to humans in general, but they can get into packets of food and cause waste. In the case of carpenter ants, though, the damage they cause to a home can be extensive.

Using cayenne pepper or chili powder will irritate and repel ants without killing them.

Natural Aromas for Flies

Flies find many scents repellant including lavender, basil, cinnamon and lemongrass. Cucumber slices are said to repel flies too, but we have our doubts about that.

Are Chemical Pesticides More Effective Than Eco-Friendly Options?

Pesticides have proven effective over the years for eliminating many different types of pests. After the Second World War ended, bed bug populations declined dramatically due to the use of DDT. Many people believe the banning of this chemical is a big reason that bed bugs have returned in great numbers.

However, while there is truth in this, it is also proven that pests have developed levels of immunity to pesticides. Around 500 species of insects and bugs are believed to be unaffected to varying degrees by bug sprays.

Put simply, the continued use of chemicals to eliminate pests is only going to make them more resistant over time, while these same sprays and powders can cause havoc to the environment and impair the health of humans and wildlife.

Summary

When you need pest control solutions, try natural options first. If you outsource this job to professionals, check if they advertise environmentally friendly options. A good pest control business will be happy to discuss options for remedying your problem in a way that suits you.

Often, they will attempt to find a non-chemical solution to your pest problem before resorting to chemicals. Sometimes, there may be no other option other than the use of pesticides. However, it is hoped that even these methods are becoming safer as certain chemicals are removed from the manufacturing process.

Feature image: Egor Kamelev; Image 1: Alexas Fotos

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