With the increasing awareness of human impact on the environment and concerns about health repercussions from the use of chemicals, some customers are requesting the use of pesticides labeled organic. But what does organic mean?
In the world of apples and bananas, a USDA organic label means that the fruit was grown using ecologically sound methods. Perhaps surprisingly, it does not necessarily mean pesticide-free. It does mean, however, that if pesticides are used, they must be selected from an approved list.
OK, so that’s the world of produce. What does organic mean when we’re talking about toxic substances used to eliminate pest infestations?
Organic vs. Synthetic
In the world of pest management, organic refers to a natural substance, and synthetic refers to a man-made substance. You might automatically assume that organic is better for the environment and safer for humans and animals. However, that is not necessarily true. Pesticides are by definition toxic to the targeted pest. Often a greater amount of organic pesticide is needed, with an associated greater impact on the environment, than if a similar-acting synthetic pesticide is used. There are also concerns that natural pesticides, which are not studied as much as synthetic ones, may have effects we are not yet aware of.
Why choose organic?
So why choose our organic ecocare service instead of our standard service? Modern’s trained service professionals are happy to discuss the pros and cons of organic vs. synthetic with our customers. Some business customers have a corporate commitment to green alternatives and want to ensure that their pest control methods align with that commitment. Others are processors or retailers of organic produce and must follow government guidelines. Through an individualized IPM (Integrated Pest Management) plan, Modern Pest Services ensures that they are in complete compliance with the most up-to-date government standards.
Sometimes organic pest control is the only allowable choice. Our customers who live in the seaside town of Ogunquit, Maine, are required by city ordinance to use only approved organic pesticides (with a few exceptions). Other towns in Maine may follow suit in the coming years (Massachusetts and New Hampshire do not allow such ordinances to be made at the city/town level). Modern Pest Services stays abreast of these regulations to ensure that its IPM plans for customers from affected towns are in accord with the law.
If you think organic pest management might be the right approach for you, contact Modern Pest Services to schedule a meeting. Our highly trained professionals are ready to discuss how our organic, low-impact, environmentally conscious methods can meet your pest management needs.