Significance

• As concern about the environment grows, more and more people are searching for natural alternatives for necessary, but toxic, products such as pesticides. According to the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), there are dangers associated with the use of toxic pesticides, as these contain poison. Insecticides like diazinon and chloropyrifos are especially dangerous, as they have potential to harm aquatic organisms even at very low levels.
  
  

Types

• Organic pest controls such as Diatomaceous Earth eliminate insects without the use of poison. This is done by utilizing sharp diatoms which scrape the protective skin form the insect, causing its dehydration and ultimately its death. Another type of organic control is EcoSmart's botanical pesticide, which is mostly comprised of organic plant oils that are harmful to pests but safe for the environment.
  
  

Considerations

• According to the EPA, care must be taken when selecting a pest control company. Along with verification of the company's license and acquiring references, it is also important to make sure they are willing to discuss their proposed method of pest control before beginning treatment. This way a homeowner can discover if organic pesticides are available before proceeding.