Integrated Pest Management (IPM) is an effective and environmentally sensitive approach to pest management that relies on a combination of common-sense practices. IPM programs use current, comprehensive information on the life cycles of pests and their interaction with the environment. This information, in combination with available pest control methods, is used to manage pest damage by the most economical means, and with the least possible hazard to people, property, and the environment.

The IPM approach can be applied to both agricultural and non-agricultural settings, such as the home, garden, and workplace. IPM takes advantage of all appropriate pest management options including, but not limited to, the judicious use of pesticides. In contrast, organic food production applies many of the same concepts as IPM but limits the use of pesticides to those that are produced from natural sources, as opposed to synthetic chemicals.

The movement towards “green” in the field of pest control involves the use of an integrated approach to remove, control and prevent pest problems. This approach balances prevention – an important part of Green IPM™, changing unsafe and wrong sanitation habits, client awareness and a solid collaborative partnership in addition to the judicious use of pesticides, when they are deemed necessary.

GREEN IPM™ WORKS AROUND THE FOLLOWING MAIN AXES:

A Management buy-in
An imperative step for the successful implementation of the Green IPM™ and the Global Green standards.
Client contribution starts with the importance of agreeing on a pest threshold and understanding the scope of a Green IPM™ plan; creating and implementing processes for general site maintenance, proper cleaning systems, waste management and other aspects of facility management.

A solid pest prevention maintenance process to

• Monitor and identify pest problem areas,
• Advise on sanitary measures,
• Advise on pest proofing techniques,
• Manage environmental factors to reduce pest infestation

A Tailor-made Integrated Pest Management protocol is embedded into Green IPM™ procedures and plans
Through the careful use of selected natural repellents and insecticides, in addition to mechanical and physical control. This is a fundamental step to shifting towards an environmentally conscious approach and agreeing on the pests thresholds in different locations.

Existing pest problems can be solved using IPM. IPM programs are designed to reduce health hazards to the people, pets and non-target that can inhabit the building or structures.

IPM programs accomplish this by using approaches such as

• Sanitation
• Monitoring
• Trapping
• Using baits first rather than spraying
• Using least hazardous/least toxic pesticides when they are needed.

By having an IPM program in place, you are taking special protective measures to reduce pesticide exposure to non-pest organisms and the environment.

Integrated pest management is not just the application of pesticides or absence of pesticides it’s understanding the science and biology of the pest and using that information to solve your pest problem.

IPM is also a way to minimize pests in and around your home.