Green and Sustainable Pest Control Methods

Non-ChemicalLicense Required
Effectiveness:
Cost Level
Medium
Environmental Impact
Low
Resistance Risk
Low
Target Pests
6 species

Target Pests (2)

Common NameScientific NameCategory
German CockroachBlattella germanicaCockroaches
MosquitoCulex pipiensMosquitoes

Application Method

Implement reduced-risk pest management using mechanical, cultural, and biological controls minimizing synthetic pesticide use. Methods include: diatomaceous earth and silica gel desiccant dusts, essential oil-based repellents and sprays, botanical insecticides (pyrethrins, neem), insecticidal soaps, boric acid, biological larvicides (BTI for mosquitoes), pheromone mating disruption, parasitic wasps for stored product pests, heat treatments for bed bugs, mechanical exclusion and trapping, sanitation and source reduction, and habitat modification. Emphasize prevention through IPM hierarchy: inspection and monitoring, customer education, sanitation, exclusion, mechanical controls, and reduced-risk products only as needed. Appeals to customers seeking organic, eco-friendly, or reduced-chemical approaches.

Timing

Implement as comprehensive IPM program from initial service. Adjust methods based on pest pressure and customer expectations.

Frequency

Ongoing program requiring regular monitoring and proactive prevention. Service intervals based on pest pressure and sanitation compliance.

Preparation Required

Discuss customer expectations and limitations. Have variety of reduced-risk products and tools available. Develop comprehensive IPM program emphasizing prevention. Educate customer on their role in program success.

Follow-up Required

Provide detailed service reports documenting IPM activities. Educate customer regularly on prevention. Adjust program based on results. Be prepared to use conventional products if infestation cannot be controlled with reduced-risk methods.

Safety Precautions

  • Even natural products can pose hazards - follow all label directions
  • Essential oils can cause allergic reactions
  • Heat treatments require proper training and equipment
  • Set realistic customer expectations - may require more frequent service
  • Some pests require conventional products for effective control
Important Disclaimer: The information provided in this knowledge base is for educational and reference purposes only. Pest management professionals should always consult current product labels, Safety Data Sheets (SDS), manufacturer instructions, and applicable local, state, and federal regulations as the definitive source of truth. Product formulations, application methods, safety requirements, and regulations may change over time. This information may be out of date and should not replace professional judgment, proper training, or required licensing and certifications.