APM cover.P65 - Pesticide Action Network Asia and the Pacific

Transcription

OU USE A
T HOME
AT
USE….
Miscarriages, Stillbirths
k
sabilities, Autism
in Children
and Diseases
umour, Brain Cancer
dren
USING
CONTROL SOL
UTIONS
SOLUTIONS
AY
F AND Y
OUR F
AMIL
Y
YOUR
FAMIL
AMILY
DEBUG YOUR HOME THE NATURAL WAY
NOW THA
T
THAT
ork Asia and the Pacific (PAN AP)
Penang, Malaysia
656 0381
PAN AP
p.net
w.panap.net
Pesticide Action Network Asia and the Pacific
06/22/2006, 14:37
DEBUG
YOUR HOME
THE NATURAL WAY
A quick, easy guide
to safer pest control at home
Pesticide Action Network
Asia and the Pacific
in collaboration with
SOS (Save OurSelves) and
Education and Research Association for Consumers
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DEBUG YOUR HOME THE NATURAL WAY
A quick, easy guide to safer pest control at home
Copyright © Pesticide Action Network Asia and the Pacific. 2006.
All rights reserved.
Pesticide Action Network Asia and the Pacific (PAN AP) holds the
right to this publication. The publication may be cited in part as
long as PAN AP is properly acknowledged as the source and PAN
AP is furnished with copies of the final work where the quotation
or citation appears.
Compiled and written by: G. Clare Westwood
Editor-in-Chief: Sarojeni V. Rengam
Editor: Jennifer Mourin
Production Supervisor: Ma. Johanna Busto Quinto
Layout Design: Red Leaf Designs
Front Cover: Jennifer Mourin and Red Leaf Designs
Illustrations: Matthew Chong
Publisher: Pesticide Action Network Asia and the Pacific
(PAN AP), Penang, Malaysia
Printed by: Forda Printing Sdn. Bhd., Penang, Malaysia
Westwood, G. Clare
Debug your home the natural way: a quick, easy guide to safer
pest control at home/(compiled and written by: G. Clare
Westwood).
ISBN: 983-9381-31-8
1. Pest control – Handbook, manuals, etc.
2. Household pests – Control Handbooks, manuals, etc.
I. Title. 628.96
April 2006
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NOTICE
The alternative pest control methods suggested in this book have
been compiled based on surveys conducted in Malaysia as well as
other references (most of which are cited in the References
Section) so as to give a fairly comprehensive range of natural
alternatives that people have reportedly tried with some success.
Readers are advised to do their own research on the methods
suggested in this book if in any doubt, test them on a small scale
first and avoid using any material that they know or suspect they
have an adverse (e.g., allergic) reaction to. This publication is
intended to be a simple, modest and easy guide for the general
consumer in Malaysia and in other parts of Asia as well. PAN AP
does not claim it to be an exhaustive (or even near-exhaustive)
reference in alternative pest control methods. No doubt there
are many other effective natural solutions used by people all over
the world. The tips given in this book are just a start.
PAN AP
Disclaimer
The information contained in this book is for general educational
purposes only. Pesticide Action Network Asia and the Pacific (PAN
AP) does not give any warranty on the accuracy, completeness,
functionality, effectiveness, usefulness, or other assurances as to
the contents of this book. PAN AP, its directors, officers, employees
and associates are not responsible and/or liable for any losses,
damage to property, or personal injury suffered directly or
indirectly from reliance on the information, in whole or in part or
in conjunction, as contained in this book. All implementation and/
or usage, in whole or in part or in conjunction, of the alternative
pest control methods contained herein by all person/s is/are solely
at the person/s’ own risk. All opinions and comments expressed
herein are made in good faith and in keeping with PAN AP’s vision
and mission.
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ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS
PAN AP gratefully acknowledges the efforts and contribution of
the following people/organisations:
•
Mr. Ong Boon Keong, Founder and Co-ordinator of SOS
(Save OurSelves, a community-group in Penang devoted to
addressing the housing issues of those displaced by the
repeal of the Rent Control Act 1960) who conducted one
of the groundwork surveys for this book for PAN AP;
•
ERA Consumer (Education and Research Association
for Consumers), Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia, who conducted
the other groundwork survey for this book;
•
the respondents of both the surveys mentioned above
for their great co-operation and support;
•
Dr. Zairi Jaal, Co-ordinator of the Vector Control
Research Unit, Universiti Sains Malaysia, for his help with
some of the Malay translations;
•
Mr. Rudhrapathy Vijayavale for meticulously
proofreading this book;
•
the
Humanistisch
Institute
Voor
Ontwikkelingssamenwerking (HIVOS, Netherlands),
Evangelischer Entwicklungsdienst (EED, Germany), and
Netherlands Organisation for International Development
Cooperation (NOVIB, Netherlands) for their generous
support to PAN AP;
•
and all those who have contributed in one way or
another towards the creation of this book, especially those
who shared their APM home-solutions or technical
knowledge in relevant areas with us.
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FOREWORD
We have a dire situation where 25 million farm workers are being
poisoned by pesticides every year.
In October 1999, in Peru, 24 children died from pesticide poisoning.
In Benin, seventy farmers died due to endosulfan poisoning. In
China, 44,800 new cases of pesticide poisoning are reported every
year, including 3,900 fatalities. Communities and consumers are
exposed to pesticides through contamination of the soil, air and
water. Worse, pesticides are seriously undermining the safety of
our future generations as studies indicate their ability to cause
disruption to our hormonal system leading to lowered fertility,
feminisation of males and masculinisation of females. Some
pesticides are suspected of adversely affecting our immune systems
as well as causing cancer. These pesticides are widely and commonly
used.
Pesticides Sales Are Up! Pesticide companies continue to profit.
There are now more pesticides used globally as Southern countries
are on a hyper drive to industrialise, especially their agriculture.
The industry’s promotion of herbicide-tolerant, geneticallyengineered crops has triggered an even higher use of herbicides.
The agrochemical market was worth USD 35.4 billion in 2004. The
top 10 agrochemical companies accounted for approximately 84
per cent (USD 29.566 billion) of the total market. The top six
companies controlled 71 per cent of the pesticide market while
the top two controlled over one-third.
The poisoning of our bodies, our wombs and our children, and the
pollution of our water, air, soil and food by pesticides is, however,
totally unacceptable. With the information that we now have – of
the toll that pesticides exert on our lives and the successful
programmes in pesticide reduction and elimination through
community integrated pest management and sustainable agriculture
programmes – it is unconscionable that we continue to use
pesticides.
In the home, the use of pesticides continues unabated and our
children and families are doused with hazardous pesticides daily.
There are better ways to protect the health of our families. There
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are alternatives available, but they are not simple store-bought
solutions to eradicate insects and other small animals from our
homes. These solutions may take time and effort, but most of all
they require a change of mindset to accept these insects and
small animals that we consider “pests” as co-habitants on this earth.
A better understanding of their biology and habits, especially their
feeding habits, can help us to achieve effective pest control in our
homes.
This book attempts to compile useful information about less toxic
solutions in pest control for homes. It shares some of the practices
and wisdom of ordinary people, farmers and the older generation
in controlling household pests without poisoning themselves and
their homes needlessly.
It has been a learning and sharing process to make this book available
and we hope that this book will be the start of a systematic collation
of alternative pest management practices, methods and wisdom of
people from all over the world. Thus, I look forward to more sharing
and encourage everyone who finds this book useful and who knows
better, natural (non-pesticide) methods of pest control to share
them with us so that these safer methods can become available to
many others.
I would like to thank Mr. Ong Boon Keong of Save OurSelves (SOS,
Malaysia), and Ms. Indrani Thuraisingham and Ms. Chubashini
Suntharalingam of Education and Research Association for Consumers
(Malaysia), who collaborated and participated in this effort to
document these alternative methods of safer pest control.
It was definitely a team effort in PAN AP with everyone pitching in
to help, but this book would not have seen the light of day without
the tremendous work and dedication of Clare Westwood who finally
moulded relevant documentation into a helpful book for consumers
to use.
Sarojeni V. Rengam
Executive Director
Pesticide Action Network Asia and the Pacific
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TABLE OF CONTENTS
Page
Foreword
v
Welcome to the Toxic World –
the Real Dangers of Pesticides
1
Pests in the Home
19
A. Pests in Living Areas of the Home
B. Pests of Stored Food
C. Pests on People and Domestic Animals
25
53
59
Pests in the Garden
73
References
89
Appendices
Appendix A: Common natural pest repellants
97
Appendix B: Results of Mr Ong Boon Keong’s
survey in Penang (2004)
104
Appendix C: Results of ERA’s survey in Selangor
and Perak (2004)
108
Index of Pests
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Welcome to the Toxic World
WELCOME TO THE
TO
XIC WORLD
TOXIC
ANGERS
– THE REAL D
DANGERS
OF PESTICIDES
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WELCOME
TO THE TOXIC WORLD
- THE REAL DANGERS OF
PESTICIDES
W
HILE MANY OF US HAVE HEARD OR READ THAT
pesticides are hazardous to human health, we have,
at best, a vague idea of the degree of such dangers and
the extent of our vulnerability to these hazardous
products in everyday life.
Yet the undeniable fact is that such dangers are very
real and far more prevalent than we realise. Pesticides
are poisons. They are designed to kill pests. All pesticides
are toxic. The myth that “pesticides are only harmful
to the pests and not to me” is the most dangerous
threat of all. Pesticides can kill any living thing and their
free use should be a cause of great concern to all of us.
The use of pesticides in controlling and eradicating pests
has become so commonplace. We can buy many
pesticides even in our local supermarkets and do not
question their existence or safety. What many people
fail to see, however, is that the use of pesticides is
merely regulated and that there is no such thing as a
“safe pesticide”. Let us remember that systems are
imperfect and generally slow to react to research
information. By the time governing authorities decide
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Debug Your Home the Natural Way
to react and impose the necessary restrictions, thousands
of people may have already been exposed to and harmed
by the pesticides.1
Pesticides are poisons and can cause harm to human
health and the environment. However, the use of
pesticides is seen as necessary by governments in order
to maintain current agricultural production levels in their
countries. There is an underestimation of the impacts
of pesticides on farmers and users because many
governments of developing countries either do not have
the human and financial resources to monitor the
impacts or it is not a high priority. This lack of
information or under-estimation of pesticide poisoning
consequently results in no governmental action or
inadequate efforts to prevent or reduce pesticide
poisoning. Moreover, policy-makers and regulators often
lack information and knowledge or are ignorant about
alternative pest management approaches. These factors
contribute to the current indiscriminate use and overuse of hazardous pesticides.
Aside from this, it is pertinent to bear in mind that
forces beyond governments, such as transnational
corporations, industrialists, elites, and in some
countries, even landlords, often have a powerful influence
on critical decisions that impact the market, such as
the use of chemicals in agriculture and consumer
products.
The pesticide trade is a multi-billion dollar business. Today
many pesticides that have been banned or withdrawn in
some countries continue to be sold in developing
countries. Even when developing countries ban a
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hazardous pesticide, the pesticide industry challenges
the decision and lobbies politicians to continue their
use.
Some corporations even use unethical methods, for
example, one pesticide transnational corporation,
Monsanto, was found bribing Indonesian policy-makers
to allow the planting of a controversial genetically
engineered crop (of which concerns on the impact on
human health and the environment have not been fully
addressed) in Indonesia.* So it is not surprising that
hazardous pesticides continue to be available because it
is mostly about profits.
How then can we ensure our safety and that of our
children when it comes to pesticides? Firstly, let us not
depend solely on governing bodies to tell us what is safe
and what is not. It is time for us, ordinary consumers,
to take full responsibility for our own safety and that of
our families. This begins with getting the right
information so we can make wise choices. While it is
true that risks are part and parcel of life, it is important
that we are adequately educated as to the true extent
of such risks before making our decisions. With
something as important as life and death, it is best to
exercise the principle of precaution.
*Reuters, 2005.
See http://www.gmwatch.org/archive2.asp?
arcid=4776. Also http://www.corpwatch.org/article.php?
id=11787
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A. BASIC INFORMATION
ABOUT PESTICIDES
♦ Pesticides are toxic substances (poisons) intended to
kill, control, or repel pests, but they can also be
harmful to humans. They include insecticides (kill
insects), herbicides (kill weeds), fungicides (kill
fungus), rodenticides (kill rodents), molluscicides (kill
molluscs e.g., snails) and even disinfectants (kill
germs).
♦ Most pesticides are made from synthetic chemicals
i.e., petrochemicals. A few occur naturally but this
does not mean that they are non-toxic. Natural
products like arsenic and nicotine are poisonous. For
international listings of harmful pesticides, visit PAN
UK’s website (www.pan-uk.org) for ‘The List of
Lists’.
♦ Pesticides can be absorbed into your body through
the skin and eyes and through breathing and
swallowing.
♦ Several studies have indicated that human exposure
to household pesticides is at levels higher than
assumed safe, especially in children. For example,
labels normally state or imply that it is safe to be in
contact with treated lawns (grass) after the sprays
have dried, yet there is scant scientific evidence to
support this claim.2
♦ Similarly, studies have shown that urban areas have
higher levels of pesticides in the soil compared with
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agricultural areas, and residues can stay around much
longer inside the home than outside it. 2
♦ Children are the most vulnerable to the impacts of
chemicals in our environment. The exposure begins
in the womb. Under similar conditions of exposure,
children absorb more chemicals through the skin and
through breathing compared with adults. There is
also a higher incidence of children swallowing
pesticides accidentally or through playing with treated
pets, on a treated lawn or carpet, or in other
contaminated areas around the home or in school. A
study in Florida, USA, revealed the presence of
pesticides throughout the home environment. 2
Studies have also linked household insecticides to
elevated risks of childhood leukaemia. 3
♦ Pesticide exposure at schools has produced acute
illnesses among school employees and students. 4
A disease you are suffering from today could be
a result of your great-grandmother’s exposure to
an environmental toxin during her pregnancy.
(http://www.wsunews.wsu.edu/detail.asp?StoryID=5261)
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B. HEALTH EFFECTS
OF PESTICIDES
Health impacts from exposure to pesticides can be either
short-term or long-term.
The symptoms of pesticide poisoning can include any of
the following: burning, itching, rashes, blisters,
headaches, nausea, dizziness, anxiety, muscle twitching,
restlessness, blurred vision, sweating, vomiting,
difficulty in breathing, abdominal pain, diarrhoea,
lethargy, numbness, permanent damage to the eye
including blindness, fits and convulsions, coma and
death.2
Pesticides can weaken the immune system and aggravate
existing health problems. People with asthma and
allergies, especially children, can react to very low levels
of pesticides. Pesticides can also cause irregular heart
rhythms and people with heart disease may have a
worsening of their condition when exposed.
Endocrine Disruptors, Carcinogens and Chronic
Health Effects
Of particular interest in recent years is the impact of
pesticides on the endocrine system. The endocrine
system is the body’s chemical ‘messenger system’ of
hormones and other special messengers, which help
communication between various parts of the body.
Hormones stimulate and control many bodily functions
such as reproduction, growth and development,
behaviour, immunity and energy.
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More than 80 pesticides are suspected of causing
disruption to the endocrine system while over 160 are
now listed as possible carcinogens (cancer-causing).5
Studies have implicated these pesticides to the possible
onset of the diseases mentioned below including breast
cancer.
Chronic long-term effects identified in various studies
conducted all over the world include the following effects:
2, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9
a. Cancer and tumours
b. Damage to the brain and nervous system
c. Damage to the organs of the body
d. Reproductive effects – reduced fertility, low sperm
count, sterility, spontaneous abortion, miscarriage,
stillbirths, endometriosis, etc. Of particular concern
is the impact of pesticides on the unborn child whose
development is at very high risk.
e. Recent studies indicate that pesticides may cause
an increase in hyper-aggressive behaviour. In one
case study in Mexico, heightened aggression in children exposed to heavy pesticide use was observed. 9
The bottom line is: the use of pesticides can lead to
human death. Just because the health hazards are slow
to manifest themselves, it does not make them less
real. Pests will eventually leave our homes/buildings/
farms or die – after all, they have short life spans. But
the effects of the pesticides used to destroy them may
literally follow us and our children to the grave.
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Household Pesticides
Pyrethrins* and pyrethroids* are common components
of household and garden pesticides including lice and
flea shampoos. Common pyrethroids include prallethrin,
allethrin, d-phenothrin, cylluthrin, and permethrin –
active ingredients in many household aerosols, vapourising
mats and mosquito coils. (Check the containers for
names of the active ingredients ending with “….thrin”.)
Carbamates, such as propoxur, are another common
group of chemicals used in household pesticides – they
are linked to incidence of cancer. Malathion, commonly
used as a pesticide spray in the garden, belongs to the
organophosphates
group.
Carbamates
and
organophosphates are among the most toxic pesticides
known.
All these substances are most easily ingested via
inhalation and highly likely to precipitate or aggravate
asthma as well as acute and/or allergic reactions like
headaches, difficulty in breathing, allergic rhinitis
(inflammation of the nasal mucous membranes),
conjunctivitis, tremors, convulsions, swelling and
dermatitis (skin itch, rash, etc.).
*Pyrethrins
are the active ingredients found in the flowers
of certain species of the chrysanthemum plant that have
a toxic effect on insects by attacking their nervous system.
Natural pyrethrins are, however, quickly detoxified by
enzymes in the insect. To delay this enzyme action,
substances such as carbamates, organophosphates
or synergists are added to the pyrethrins.
Synthetic forms of pyrethrins are called pyrethroids.
(http:// extoxnet.orst.edu/pips/pyrethri.htm)
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Even the inert ingredients in household pesticides cause
reactions such as chemical pneumonia, and damage to
the liver, heart and kidneys. 2 (Inert ingredients are
added to pesticide formulations to facilitate spreading,
sticking or penetration of the pesticide.) The non-active
ingredients in mosquito coils have been shown to release
as much (carcinogenic) particulate matter as 75-137
cigarettes, depending on the brand.10
C. CHILDREN IN DANGER
Children are the most susceptible to chemical
poisoning. This susceptibility starts in the womb so
pregnant women are in the “high risk” category too.11
The growing foetus is the most vulnerable target of
endocrine disruption. During the foetal stage and early
childhood, cells are rapidly dividing and the brain, organs
and systems are being formed. At this time, the foetus/
child is particularly vulnerable to disruption – often, with
permanent effects.
Children’s skin area compared to their size is larger
than in adults – this increases their area of exposure.
The skins of babies and young children are also thinner,
softer and contain more water, thus allowing chemicals
to be absorbed more easily.
Young children also tend to explore and may ingest
pesticides accidentally. They are more exposed to
contaminated areas such as treated carpets, lawns and
floors. Household sprays and pesticides often rest on
these surfaces and children’s toys.
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Children have less mature livers and immune systems to
protect them compared with adults. They also have a
higher respiratory rate and therefore, breathe in more
particles into the lungs.
Household pesticides are not safe.
Two studies found lower sperm count and motility (movement)
in men living in semi-rural and agricultural areas
compared with men living in more urban areas.
This was linked to the use of agricultural pesticides.
(http://www.ehponline.org/press: 22 Nov 2002
and 17June 2003)
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Given below are some findings from case studies on
the health impacts of pesticides on children.
♦ Harm to the Unborn Child 8
The growing foetus is susceptible even to low doses of
pesticides and the effects are typically irreversible.
Permanent damage can include: reduced growth;
functional abnormalities; altered behaviour; reduced
fertility; learning disabilities; lower intelligence; greater
susceptibility to disease; and deformities.
Genital deformities found in male animals (such as
undescended testicles, cleft penis and malformed
reproductive tracts) are sometimes referred to as the
‘feminisation’ (or ‘incomplete masculinisation’) of the
male genitals. On the reverse, ‘masculinisation’ or
‘defeminisation’ has been found in female animals. The
incidence of these deformities in animals is cause for
concern because it indicates the possibility that these
adverse reactions may occur in humans too.
♦ Leukaemia
In studies conducted in the USA, Canada, Brazil, Europe,
China, and Japan, it was found that children whose
parent/s (either or both) were exposed to pesticides on
the job were more likely to suffer from leukaemia than
children whose parents had no such exposure. 8 The
likelihood went up as high as eleven times in one study
on children below five years of age. 2
One mosquito coil can release as much
carcinogenic particulate matter as
burning 75 to 137 cigarettes.
(http://www.ehponline.org/press/mosquito.html)
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Another study in Los Angeles, USA, showed that children
who came from households using pesticides in the home
once a week or more were four times more likely to
have leukaemia. This went up to six times if their
parents used garden pesticides once a month or more. 2
A positive link between household insecticides and
childhood leukaemia was also made in a study in 2002.3
The most recent study by French doctors, published in
the January 2006 issue of Occupational and
Environmental Medicine, reports findings that children
frequently exposed to household insecticides (including
from before birth) used on plants, lawns and in head
lice shampoos run twice the risk of developing childhood
leukaemia. 12 Carbamates, found in plant treatments,
lice shampoos and insect sprays, have been most
commonly linked to the incidence of leukaemia cases. 12
♦ Brain Cancer
Studies in various parts of the USA, Canada, France and
Norway found that children whose parents used pesticides
in the home were three to seven times more likely to
have brain cancer compared with children whose parents
did not. 2,8 Children treated with lindane for head lice
were about five times more at risk from contracting
brain cancer. 2
♦ Bone Cancer
A study in the USA showed that children whose fathers
were exposed to pesticides were six to nine times more
at risk from bone cancer. 2
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♦ Wilm’s Tumour
Wilm’s tumour is a common type of kidney cancer that
usually affects children below the age of five. In Brazil,
it was found that children of farm workers who often
used pesticides were three times more probable of having
Wilm’s tumour than children of non-farm workers with
no such pesticide exposure. 2
♦ Asthma, Decreased Mental Ability and Other
Effects
Pesticide exposure can result in asthma, decreased
mental ability, attention deficit hyperactivity disorder
(ADHD), multiple chemical sensitivity, chronic fatigue
syndrome, altered behaviour, etc. 7,8 A study in Mexico
found a marked decrease in motor, concentration and
memory faculties of children exposed to heavy
pesticides. 8
A study on 7- to 12-year old school children in Kuala
Lumpur, Malaysia, showed that exposure to mosquito
coils for at least three times a week was associated
with asthma and persistent wheezing. 13 (Also see
reference no.10 on the dangers of mosquito coils.)
Eating organic plant-derived foods can reduce
the effects of pesticides in children.
(http://www.ehponline.org/docs/2003/5754/abstract.html)
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D. OUR CHOICE
What makes something (plant, animal or microorganism)
a pest really depends on whether the damage it causes
is tolerable to us or not. Thus, although it is
understandable that we want to rid our homes of dirty,
annoying and germ-transmitting pests completely and
quickly, we should not lose our perspective. Our choices
in dealing with pests should not cost us and those around
us the greater good of long-term health and well-being.
If we stop to think for a moment, pests are simply
creatures trying to survive the best they can. Many of
them have encroached into our living space due to
urbanisation and the destruction of their natural
habitats. Ironically, about 99 per cent of insects are
actually beneficial or harmless. Spiders and lizards are
good natural controllers of pests and bees give us
nutritious honey, so why destroy them? It is possible to
live peacefully with these creatures.
Therefore, reasonable control rather than attempts at
total annihilation (which is neither economically nor
biologically feasible) is the key. There are non-toxic and
least-toxic alternatives available to us that are much
safer to people and the environment than using
pesticides – these solutions may require some tolerance,
patience and perseverance on our part but are well worth
the effort.
This publication presents some commonly used non-toxic
pest control methods – gathered from surveys carried
out in Malaysia as well as other natural methods
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reportedly used by people in other parts of the world.
These are ordinary people who have made the
extraordinary but wise choice to avoid ‘quick fix’ toxic
(pesticide) solutions.
When we use pesticides, we create a toxic environment
not only in our homes but also beyond them. Pesticides
cling to air and dust particles and move freely about,
endangering every living thing around. We destroy
delicate eco-systems that preserve the balance of nature.
A cleaner, safer, less toxic and healthier world is easily
within our grasp. The choice is ours. s
Please refer to the References cited in full at the back of this
book. The numbers of the citations there correspond to the
super-script reference numbers indicated in this chapter.
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Pests in the Home
PESTS IN THE HOME
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Pests in the Home
PESTS IN THE HOME
Think “Non-Toxic”
W
HEN PESTS INVADE THE PRECIOUS DOMAIN OF OUR
homes, we think “It’s war!” But before you call
out the “chemicals of pest destruction” i.e., pesticides,
think about if they are going to end up doing harm than
good in the long run for you and your family. Most of
the time, these so-called pests pose more a nuisance
and inconvenience than a fatal danger to us.
There are some basic, common sense and generic
guidelines that have proven effective in keeping most
home pests away. There is rarely a real need to resort
to chemical pest solutions so don’t let them be an option
for you as far as possible. Think “non-toxic” long-term.
Be careful when hiring professionals to remove pests
from your home as they tend to use strong chemicals.
If you really need their help, get them to use non-toxic
or least-toxic methods, even if it takes a little longer to
solve the problem.
Prevention is the best solution. It is harder to remove
pests once they have entered and infested your home.
Pest populations can be controlled by denying the pests
access to your home and removing their basic survival
requirements, such as air, food, moisture and shelter.
If you can learn to pest-proof your homes with a few
simple measures, this will go a long way towards keeping
your home free of pests. And even if they do enter your
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home, do not panic and resort to dangerous solutions.
The situation can easily be controlled with a little
patience and perseverance.
Cleanliness
As most common pests in homes – especially ants, flies,
cockroaches and rats – are attracted to foodstuff, good
sanitation and hygiene is very important. Clean the house
of scraps, food crumbs, etc. everyday. Keep cooked
food in cupboards or covered, and store dry food in
well-sealed containers.
Garbage bins should have tight-fitting lids/covers.
Garbage should be removed every night as many
household pests are active at night. Covering each new
layer of waste with clean sand will discourage flies and
other pests attracted by the smell.
Weekly thorough (water) vacuuming is very effective
against a variety of pests such as ticks and mites. Wash
small carpets, rugs, beddings, blankets, etc. regularly
in hot soapy water or dry them in a hot dryer or under
strong sun to kill pests.
Prevent Entry
Cover drain openings with wire mesh and install wirenetted screens for doors, windows and vents to stop
pests from entering your home. Fill holes around the
house and in the garden. Sealing gaps under doors with
a permanent metal structure is best. Alternatively, place
a wooden bar or a long, thick cloth under the doors
when you close them.
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Pests in the Home
Discourage Nesting
Most pests like to hide in moist, warm, dark areas.
Keep every area of the home clean, dry, bright and
well-aired. Reflective surfaces like mirrors are helpful
in this aspect.
Avoid upholstered furniture especially if your family
members are sensitive to allergens – such furniture
normally houses pests such as mites and bugs which
feed on organic matter from spills, sweat, etc. trapped
in the upholstery.
Choose bright/light colours for walls and curtains. Seal
or caulk* holes, crevices, and cracks in walls, floors and
furniture, and openings around pipes – use mortar or
silicon. Fill holes in and around the house and garden. In
particular, clean storage areas regularly. Clear the
surrounding areas of empty containers that retain water.
These steps will minimise pest nesting and breeding areas
in and around your home.
caulking gun
*To seal openings such as cracks and crevices with a substance
such as latex or silicone. Use a caulking gun.
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Pests in the Home
A. PESTS
IN THE LIVING AREAS
OF THE HOME
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Pests in the Home
ANTS
Name in Malay: semut
ant
Description
Small, brown/black/red insects with constricted ‘waists’.
Commonly wingless. Like to eat sweets, starches, fats,
dead insects and other animal matter, and food in
homes. Ants in the home eat fleas and certain termites
and recycle organic matter. Like to build nests in trees,
soil, buildings, and sometimes, decaying timber. Fire
ants like gardens and turf/grass. Although they like to
nest in wood, they do not actually eat or damage wood.
Control
1. Prevent ant access to food. Place legs of
tables in small jars or saucers of oil or water and
detergent. Change the water every few days.
2. Sweet food e.g., a tin of sweetened milk
can be placed in a container with a little water
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to prevent ants from getting to it. Store such
food in the refrigerator when not in use.
3. Putting a few dried cloves (cengkih in Malay)
in your sugar will keep the ants away from it.
4. Wipe the paths that ants travel into your
home with soapy water or a 50-50 mixture of
vinegar and water to deter them from returning.
Rubbing a bar of soap or chalk over ant trails will
have a similar effect.
5. Mopping with a bucket of water mixed with
a handful of salt will also deter ants.
6. Flood ant nests/mounds with hot boiling
water mixed with a little detergent every few
days until the nests are destroyed.
7. If you have two (or more) fire ant mounds in
your garden, shovel some earth from one mound
and put it on the second mound, and vice versa.
The ants will destroy each other’s colonies.
8. There are certain ants and termites that tend
to fly around bright lights just before heavy rain.
Put a basin of water on the floor below the light/
lamp. The insects will be attracted to the
reflection of the light in the water, fly down
towards it and drown in the basin.
An ant can lift 20 times its body weight.
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Pests in the Home
BED BUGS
Name in Malay: pepijat, pijat-pijat
bed bug
Description
Flat, wingless, reddish-brown insects. Feed on human
and animal blood, usually at night. Bites cause irritation,
itchiness and inflammation to the skin. Give off a
characteristic pungent odour. Usually found in floor
cracks, mattresses, and upholstered furniture. Leave
behind black faeces. Move from room to room through
plumbing, electrical conduits or cracks in walls – can
also be transferred from one room/house to another
via clothing, bedding, bed sheets, luggage, etc.
Control
The best control is prevention. Once bed bugs have
infested an occupied house, it is hard to totally eliminate
them. However, it is worth trying these techniques:
1. If possible, get rid of infested bedding and
furniture permanently.
2. Ensure no part of the bed touches the wall.
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3. For emergency measures, place bed legs in
smooth, clean glass or metal jars filled with soapy
water or put petroleum jelly on the legs to
prevent the bed bugs from climbing up at night.
4. Put mattresses, pillows, bedding and infected
areas out under strong sun for seven to eight
hours. Bed bugs are very sensitive to heat.
Although the thermal death point is 44-45
degrees Celsius, most die at 36-37 degrees
(Olkowski, 1991).
5. Steam clean or dry clean bed sheets,
blankets, and other materials infested by the
bugs. Steam clean bedroom furnishings too.
6. Adult bed bugs also die with prolonged
exposure to cold – several hours at 0-9 degrees
Celsius (Olkowski, 1991). The eggs, however, take
up to two months to die.
7. Remove the bugs by hand or vacuuming.
Fancy ants in your bed? In the USA, pharaoh ants and Argentine
ants have been found to wipe out entire bed bug infestations
(Olkowski, 1991).
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Pests in the Home
BOOKLICE, FIREBRATS AND
SILVERFISH
booklouse
firebrat
silverfish
Description of booklice
Small, greyish, soft-bodied insects less than 2mm long.
Feed on mould, fungi, paper, starch (as found in book
bindings), and grain. Found in books, cardboard boxes,
loose wallpaper, and moist areas such as the mulch* of
potted plants, bases of trees and stone walls, and under
logs.
* Mulches are materials used to cover the surface of the soil
such as leaves, grass clippings, sawdust, bark chips, straw,
compost or even synthetic materials like black plastic.
They keep the soil from getting too hot or hard, and prevent
weeds from growing as well as erosion and loss of moisture.
Natural mulches add organic nutrients to the soil.
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Description of firebrats and silverfish (gegat in
Malay)
These two are closely related. Long, flat, wingless
insects. Firebrats have a mottled black-and-white colour
and like warm, dry areas. Found around ovens, bakeries,
and book and paper storage areas. Silverfish are greyishgreen and prefer damp areas such as around water
pipes, mulch around the house, crawl spaces under the
house and in newly-built houses where the masonry has
not dried. Both eat mould and food high in protein and
starch such as starch bindings in books, moist wheat
flour and cereals.
neem leaves
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Pests in the Home
Control
1. Keep the house dry.
2. Air and sun damp areas to dry them up.
3. Clean and seal cracks and crevices.
4. Heat or freeze infested materials to dry them
out and kill the insects. Try using a hair dryer for
infested bookshelves.
5. Use a household cleaning agent to remove
and keep away mould.
6. Putting a few sachets of neem (mambu in
Malay) leaves in bookshelves may help repel these
pests.
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CARPET
BEETLES
Name in Malay: kumbang permaidani
carpet beetle
Description
Most are black /dark brown but a few species have
white/yellow/orange scales also. Larvae are hairy. Adults
can fly. Eat wool, fabrics, hair, fur, feathers, leather,
dead mice/insects, dried blood, grain, cereals, powdered
milk, pet food, potato chips, noodles, books, pollen,
etc. – they especially like animal matter. Live in carpets,
rugs, blankets, nests, furniture, stored clothing, bags
of dried food, balls of fur/hair, cupboards, etc. Also
found on cut flowers. Can eat through cardboard and
wood. Not averse to sunlight – may be seen crawling on
windows. Can cause dermatitis, sinusitis and provoke
allergic reactions.
Control
1. Make sure garments are cleaned and well
sunned before storing in sealed plastic bags.
2. Sun infested clothing in strong sunlight for
48 hours.
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Pests in the Home
3. Dried food should be stored in tight-fitting
glass containers.
4. Avoid furnishings that contain substances of
animal origin.
5. Clean and seal or caulk crevices and cracks.
6. Avoid accumulations of dust, fur, hair and
lint in the house. Vacuum regularly and
thoroughly, and change/clean vacuum bags often.
Water vacuum cleaners are better than dry ones.
7. Wash and sun carpets/rugs/etc. regularly.
8. Dry clean infested carpets and rugs to kill
the beetles.
9. Remove any nests found in walls or near to
the house.
10. Trap rather than poison rats and mice – the
decaying carcasses will attract carpet beetles and
other pests.
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COCKROACHES
Name in Malay: lipas
cockroach
Description
Oval, flattened brownish insects that hide in warm, dark
places – crevices, cupboards, drawers, etc. – in the
daytime. Active at night. Potential carriers of dysentery,
typhoid, hepatitis, and the Salmonella bacteria which
causes food poisoning. Eat foodstuff, paper, clothing,
books, etc. Natural predators of cockroaches include
ants, spiders, rats, dragonflies, geckos and scorpions.
Control
1. Neem leaves and seeds are natural repellants.
So are the water extracts of the marigold (bunga
marigold in Malay) plant and breadfruit (buah
sukun in Malay) leaves.
2. Make a cockroach trap. Half-fill a bottle with
a sweet drink and add a tablespoon of oil.
Cockroaches climbing into the bottle will drown
as the oil will prevent them from climbing out.
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Pests in the Home
Similar traps containing two inches of beer, or a
mixture of molasses and water (10:1) can also
be used.
3. Sticky paper (flypaper) can be placed in
strategic areas to trap cockroaches.
4. Keep areas underneath sinks, cabinets,
cupboards, refrigerators, and stoves, and dark
areas in storerooms, showers, drains, toilets,
wall cracks, and crevices, dry and well aired.
marigold
breadfruit
A cockroach can live up to a month without food –
as long as there’s water or moisture.
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HOUSE FLIES
Name in Malay: lalat
house fly
Description
Females lay eggs in manure/faeces, decaying plant and
animal matter, garbage, and meat. Carry germs to food
transmitting over 60 diseases including typhoid,
dysentery and hepatitis. Like heat and light. “Lesser/
little house flies”, unlike common house flies, seldom
alight on people or their food. However, they tend to
fly around people’s eyes, noses and ears.
Control
1. Install netted screens for doors and windows
to keep flies out.
2. Keep the area around and in the house free
of animal dung, decaying matter or garbage.
3. Use a flyswatter.
4. Hang ribbon flypaper or any paper soaked in
oil to trap flies.
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Pests in the Home
5. Lighted candles keep flies away.
6. Make a paste of chrysanthemum (bunga
kekwa in Malay) leaves to kill maggots.
7. Rubber seed kernel oil, peel oil of citrus fruits
(buah limau in Malay), neem seeds (burn them),
neem seed oil, and garlic (bawang putih in Malay)
oil are natural repellants for flies. Powdered
custard apple (buah nona in Malay) seeds act as
a contact poison for flies. (See Appendix A for
recipes for neem, citrus peel and garlic oils.)
8. Soak turnip (sengkuang in Malay) roots in
water overnight in a closed container. Then filter
and add an equal amount of water. Spray in flyinfested areas.
9. Use fly traps – there are electric and nonelectric versions available.
Houseflies taste with their feet.
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chrysanthemum leaf
custard apple
garlic
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Pests in the Home
MOSQUITOES
Name in Malay: nyamuk
mosquito
Description
Only female mosquitoes suck blood. Their bites may
cause swelling and itching. The Anopheles mosquito
carries the malaria disease and the Aedes mosquito
transmits dengue fever. Anopheles mosquitoes lay their
eggs on the surface of stagnant or slow-moving water,
or on rafts on moist soil. The females generally feed at
dawn and dusk. Aedes mosquitoes lay their eggs in
relatively clean water above or near to the water line,
or along the edge of the water surface. They have been
known to bite at any time inside as well as outside
buildings, but especially in the early morning and early
evening. In the home, mosquitoes like cool, dark places.
Control
1. Mosquito nets and screens over doors and
windows are effective controls.
Mosquitoes are attracted to heat, movement and certain body
odours like that of ‘old’ sweat and carbon dioxide.
A mosquito can smell you from a kilometre away.
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2. Air-conditioning is a deterrent because the
room is sealed and the temperature is low.
3. Wear long-sleeved shirts/blouses and long
trousers if you expect to be outdoors in the
evening. Wear bright coloured rather than dark
clothing.
4. Yellow lights at entrances deter mosquitoes
from entering the home.
5. Use fans to blow mosquitoes away.
6. Burn neem seeds or neem seed oil to drive
mosquitoes away. Neem oil can also be added to
bath soaps for use.
7. Clear the home area of old stagnant water
in containers, gutters, etc. Pour a little oil (e.g.,
cooking oil) on water surfaces of ponds and drains
and even very small catchment areas (e.g., little
depressions in the ground) where mosquitoes
might breed.
8. To kill mosquito larvae, use oil, garlic spray,
extract of marigold flowers or neem kernel
extract. (The extracts can be diluted with water:
average 250 parts per million.) Garlic oil is a
particularly effective mosquito larvicide (kills
larvae).
Mosquitoes are attracted to people with a high amount
of cholesterol under their skin.
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Pests in the Home
9. Citronella winterianus (maha pengiri or serai
wangi in Malay) oil is a good natural repellant
against mosquitoes. Apply it to the skin every
few hours. You may dilute the oil with a little
olive oil for wider application. You can also scent
your clothing with it. Candles made with citronella
oil can also be burned to release the fragrance.
10. Plant lemon grass citronella (serai in Malay)
around the house.
11. Tie up a few citronella leaves and place them
in cupboards, shelves and even in your car to act
as a repellant. They also give off a pleasant
aroma.
12. The smoke from burning citrus peels (kulit
buah limau in Malay) or incense will help drive
away mosquitoes. The smell is also pleasant. Best
to do so around dusk and dawn when certain
types of mosquitoes are most active. However,
burn these substances for just a little while and
not over a prolonged period.
13. Encourage the presence of dragonflies, toads,
frogs, and birds, which eat mosquitoes and their
larvae. Rear goldfish or mosquito fish.
Mosquitoes like people who eat bananas.
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citronella
winterianus
lemon grass
citronella
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Pests in the Home
RATS AND MICE
Name in Malay: tikus (mice are also sometimes called tikus padi)
rat
mouse
Description
Rodents include animals like rats, mice, rabbits and
beavers. Commonly cause damage to property and crops.
Highly productive and widespread. There are different
types of rats and mice. Carry diseases like the plague.
Small, black, curled droppings indicate their presence.
Can jump and climb. Eat any foodstuff as well as paper,
soap, etc. Like to live in enclosed spaces, holes, trash
piles, in between walls, etc. Can gnaw through wood,
aluminum, plastic, and soft mortar. Active at night.
Control
1. Rat-proof your home. Keep doors closed or
have screen doors with metal mesh/netting to
prevent rodent entry. Install metal wire mesh
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screens for vents and windows too, as well as
metal channels on the lower edges of wooden
doors. Ensure there are no gaps below the door
that rats can squeeze through.
2. Seal small openings the rodents might use to
get in e.g., drain openings (use wire mesh), and
around pipes and wires.
3. Check the ceiling and roofing – seal openings
that rats might use to get in and out.
4. Put fresh or dried mint (pudina in Malay)
leaves in closets and cupboards to repel rats.
5. Moisten small balls of cotton wool with clove
oil and leave them around in cabinets or places
rats are likely to frequent.
mint leaves
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Pests in the Home
6. Use rat cage-traps. Mice like sweet food like
jam, peanut butter, chocolate, candies and cake.
Rats prefer meat or fish. Change the bait
everyday. Camouflage the trap by covering it
with flour or sawdust. Traps must be placed in
the normal paths of the rodents. If you don’t
know where these are, sprinkle some flour or
talcum powder on the floor in likely places and
check for footprints the next day. Rats and mice
like to run close to the wall. Use obstacles like
boxes to force the rodent into the trap.
After traps have been used a few times, rub
them with aniseed oil (minyak jintan manis in
Malay) to disguise their odour. A more innovative
version of the cage-trap can trap a few rats at a
time without the need for bait. (Rat traps are
generally available from local hardware stores.)
7. Non-toxic glue traps can also be used to
catch rats and mice. Spread the glue over a
piece of cardboard and put some food bait in
the middle. The rodent will get stuck trying to
reach the bait and will not be able to free itself.
This method is more effective for small rats or
mice – big rats may be strong enough to pull the
whole cardboard with them as they try to run
away.
8.
Rear a cat to catch the rats and mice.
Rats have an in-built defence against toxins.
They take a tiny taste of any new substance (e.g., poison)
and if it makes them sick, they avoid it in future.
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SNAKES
Name in Malay:ular
cobra
Description
Snakes like the cobra have deadly venom and may enter
the home from nearby foliage. Although not all snakes
are poisonous, it is best to keep them away from the
house. Like to rest and nest in cool, dark places. Prey
on chickens, rats, etc.
Control
1. Preventing entry into the home area is crucial.
Seal all openings and holes in the ground.
2. Sprinkle sulphur (sulfur) around the house.
Reapply after rain.
3. Rear dogs, peacocks (merak in Malay) or
geese (angsa in Malay).
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Pests in the Home
TERMITES
Name in Malay: anai-anai
soldier termite
worker termite
Description
Live in colonies. Feed on cellulose contained in wood
and paper. Also attack growing trees. Like humid
conditions. There are basically two types of termites –
those that live in wood (e.g., drywood termites) and
those that live in the soil (subterranean termites). The
former leaves behind droppings in the form of coarse
sand-like pellets. Subterranean termites live underground
and tunnel through soil to feed on wood elsewhere.
Have huge colonies. Can bore into floorboards, mouldings
and house structures, and even be found several storeys
high. Termite ‘mud tubes’ on walls clearly indicate their
presence. At certain times, a percentage of the termites
Some termite species build earthen mounds 8-10 metres high.
Many of these species do not eat wood, but leaves, grass,
humus and the dung of herbivorous animals instead.
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in a colony develops wings, changes colour, and flies off
to form new colonies. These ‘swarmers’ also indicate
termite infestation. Termites serve an ecological function
in nature: breaking down the large numbers of fallen
and dead trees and returning them to the soil.
Control
1. Minimise moisture beneath and around
buildings. Keep wood structures dry.
2. Get rid of decaying tree stumps, roots and
wood debris near the house. Never bury wood
pieces in your garden.
3. Do not stack wood or newspapers against the
foundation of the house.
4. Plant trees away from the house. Roots,
branches and stumps provide avenues for
termites, ants and beetles to infest your house.
5. Dig out the colonies and make sure to remove
any pieces of wood and termite tubes.
6. Some types of ants e.g., Argentine ants, prey
on termites. Pour some honey on broken termite
tubes to attract the ants or place some ants
where the termites are.
7. Eliminate direct contact between wood and
soil by leaving a gap of at least 20 cm or filling
the gap with concrete.
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Pests in the Home
8. Keep exterior walls well-painted.
9. Anti-termite action is best taken before a
house is constructed.
9.1 An anti-termite stainless steel mesh can be
planted in the ground before a house is built.
9.2 Burmese teak is said to be very effective
against termites because of the phyto-chemicals
it contains which are apparently fatal to termites.
10. Regularly monitor the home and the area
around it for new infestations.
Research in the USA has shown that termites
cannot pass through a layer of dry or damp sand
consisting of particles of 10-16 mesh size.
Building sand barriers under and beside the foundations
of a house will help prevent termite entry. (Olkowski, 1991)
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Pests in the Home
B. PESTS
OF STORED FOOD
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Pests in the Home
PESTS OF STORED FOOD
cigarette beetle
sawtoothed grain beetle
rice weevil
(Name in Malay:
kumbang beras)
confused flour beetle
Indian meal moth
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Description
There are several types of beetles, weevils and moths
that attack stored food; flour, grain, bread, cereals,
crackers, beans, dried fruit, etc., as well as cloth, books
and leather.
Control
1. Inspect all food packages before purchase or
when they are first brought home. Most beetles
are already in the package. Do not consume any
infested food no matter how small the infestation
is.
2. Store dried food in small quantities to maintain
short turnover times.
3. Ensure stored grains are as dry as possible
before storing – heat grain in the oven at 82
degrees Celsius for two hours, stirring
occasionally, or dry them out under strong sun
for a few hours.
4. Mix grain with neem oil thoroughly. The oil
will protect the grain from weevils and beetles
for up to six months. Wash off the oil with hot
water before using the grain. (Use 30-50 ml of
neem oil – about a teacup – for a 90 g bag of
grain.)
5. Store dried food in tightly sealed glass, plastic
or metal containers. Storing the food in the
refrigerator helps them last longer and keeps
them away from pests.
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Pests in the Home
6. Clean up spilled food immediately.
7. Dried chillies (cabai in Malay) and dried
calamus (jerangau in Malay) will help protect
stored food and nuts from beetles and weevils.
8. Make anti-weevil sachets. Place garlic bulbs
on a greased tray and bake in a low oven for
about an hour. Crush bay leaves (available in
supermarkets under the dried herbs section) and
wrap these up with the garlic in a thin muslin
cloth. Tie up and store with the food.
9. Place a small paper bag with lightly ovendried chopped garlic, dried chillies, or bay or
neem leaves in the storage containers to repel
food moths.
10. Make food moth traps. Fry a spoonful of
breadcrumbs in a cupful of oil until they turn
dark and place the mixture in an open jar in the
stored food area. The odour will attract the food
moths which will then drown in the oil.
11. Clear and clean infested cupboards with soap
and water. Air cupboard overnight and treat with
neem seed kernel extract before reuse.
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chilli
calamus
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Pests in the Home
C. PESTS ON PEOPLE
AND DOMESTIC
ANIMALS
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Pests in the Home
FLEAS
Name in Malay: fli, pinjal
cat flea
Description
Cat fleas attack cats and dogs as well as humans. (The
dog flea and human flea are less common.) Tiny,
brownish to blackish, blood-sucking insects. Eggs are
small, whitish and hardly visible to the naked eye. The
larvae avoid bright light and feed on organic matter.
They need moisture and live in humid parts of buildings,
for example, in crevices or carpets. Can carry bacteria
causing diseases like the bubonic plague. Often cause
serious allergies including itching and skin lesions and
can cause an animal to lose hair.
Control
1. Fleas like to live in carpets so remove all
carpeting or have them dry/steam cleaned.
2. Keeping pets outside the house will help
prevent fleas from infesting human-occupied
areas.
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3. Wash pet bedding in hot soapy water every
few weeks. Clean pet resting areas with soapy
water.
4. Combing with a flea comb is effective in
getting rid of adult fleas. Flick the comb after
each comb into a container of soapy water which
will drown the fleas.
5. Bathe your pet with soap and water. Use a
flea soap made from fatty acids derived from
vegetable oil.
6. Boil citrus peels in a pot of water. Cool the
solution before pouring over your dog after a
bath. Rub it into the coat. It will kill fleas and
keep them away as well as make your dog smell
nice! However, do not use citrus peel baths or
oils on cats as they are very sensitive to them.
7. Vacuum carpets, upholstered furniture, floors,
cracks and crevices thoroughly on a frequent and
regular basis. Water vacuum cleaners are better,
but if you use dry vacuum cleaners, freeze or
sun the bag to kill the fleas or burn the bag.
Fleas die at 39 degrees Celsius after one hour
(Olkowski, 1991).
8. Flood or dry out organic matter beside the
house which may harbour fleas.
Fleas can jump 20 cm (eight inches) high. This means that
if a flea were the size of a man, it would be able
to jump over a skyscraper.
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HOUSE DUST MITES
Name in Malay: hama debu/
habuk rumah
house dust mite
Description
There are several types of mites that may attack people.
Many are carried by animals into homes. About 140
mite species have been found in house dust. Many of
these live off fungi in/on furniture. House dust mites
are known to cause allergic reactions such as asthma,
rhinitis and dermatitis.
Control
1. Choose appropriate furniture that is easy to
clean. Avoid furnishings that are made of
softwood (e.g., pine), textiles or fibres. Remove
cloth furnishings and wall to wall carpeting.
2. Use curtains and rugs that can be washed
repeatedly and blinds that can be vacuumed.
3. Replace feather pillows with synthetic fibre
ones.
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4. Encase mattresses in plastic covers (it will
prevent mites and mite faeces from passing
through).
5. It is best to avoid rearing furry or feathered
pets. If you have such pets, however, locate their
sleeping areas far from yours. Note also that
aquariums in the house increase moisture which
mites thrive on. Dogs, cats and other animals
produce dander, which can be converted into
allergens by house dust mites.
6. Reduce allergen-producing raw matter such
as the bodies or faeces of house insects by
controlling their presence and numbers.
7. Vacuuming, preferably wet vacuuming, is
highly effective in removing the mites. Sweeping
may only redistribute house dust into areas
harder to clean. Thorough vacuuming (e.g., 20
minutes for a mattress) once a week is better
than light vacuuming daily. Dust furniture before
vacuuming. Use special dust cloths to hold the
dust you wipe up.
8. Shampoo, dry/steam clean, or beat large
non-washable carpets at least once a year. Hot
wash or dry/steam clean blankets frequently.
9. Wash bed sheets in hot soapy water at 60
degrees Celsius every one to two weeks.
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10. Keep the humidity of the house to below 70%
if possible. Use dehumidifiers in bedrooms. Fans
improve ventilation when cooking and washing.
11. Be aware of air infiltration carrying in pollen
which house dust mites love to feed on.
A typical bed can house up to two million house dust mites.
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LICE
Name in Malay: kutu
head louse
Description
Head lice, body lice and pubic/crab lice feed on human
beings. Head lice (bluish or whitish and wingless) are
commonly found among the hairs of the scalp. The eggs/
nits cling to hairs close to the scalp. Spread through
shared combs, brushes, towels, hats, even bedding and
furniture, and close personal contact. Crab lice are found
in the pubic area and the eggs are attached to pubic
hair. Spread via personal contact, shared bedding, and
toilet seats used recently by an infested person.
Control
1. Avoid sharing combs, brushes, towels, hats,
scarves, etc. with other people.
2. Maintain a high level of personal hygiene. Use
clean underwear and clothing.
3. Comb hair with fine-tooth comb specially
designed to remove head lice and nits at least
every few days. Shampoos will not kill the eggs
so they must be manually removed. Combing with
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a solution of one part vinegar and one part water
makes it easier to comb the eggs out.
4. Use neem or oil-based (coconut or olive oil)
shampoo. Combine shampooing with combing.
5. Rub neem oil mixed with some coconut or
olive oil into the scalp and hair. Cover head and
leave for one hour. Then shampoo as normal. Do
this three times a week.
6. Lice are very susceptible to high
temperatures so the use of hair dryers and hot
water when shampooing may reduce numbers.
However, be aware that younger children’s scalps
are very sensitive to heat so do not make the
water or hair dryer too hot.
7. Wash and soak infested scarves, bedding,
clothes, etc. with hot water or place them in a
hot dryer for at least ten minutes. The lice and
eggs will die after five minutes at 55 degrees
Celsius (Olkowski, 1991). Extreme cold (-20
degrees Celsius) for five hours also kills lice and
nits (Olkowski, 1991).
8. For pubic lice, shave off the pubic hair and
wash the skin thoroughly every day with hot soapy
water.
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SCABIES MITES
Name in Malay: hama skabies /kudis buta
scabies mite
Description
These mites burrow into the skin. Intense itching starts
after about four to six weeks from initial infestation,
followed by a rash that looks like tiny blisters.
Confirmation of infestation should be done by a doctor.
Spread by prolonged close contact with an infected
person.
Control
1. Treatment for scabies should involve the
whole family and any intimate contacts of the
person infected.
2. Apply a sulphur ointment nightly for about
three nights.
3. Lemon juice mixed with turmeric (kunyit in
Malay) is also a good application.
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4. To prevent reinfestation, wash or dry/steam
clean bedding and clothing after last treatment.
lemon
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TICKS
Name in Malay: tungau (anjing)
brown dog tick
Description
Have eight legs. Hard ticks have a shield on their backs
while soft ticks do not have this and look like pieces of
bark. Dog ticks feed on the blood of dogs, causing them
irritation and loss of vigour. After feeding, the ticks
leave the animal to molt in humid places like cracks,
crevices, baseboards, under carpets/rugs and pet
beddings. Ticks may also be found on grass blades.
Carriers of pathogens that cause diseases like Lyme
disease and arthritis.
Control
1. Check the dog regularly for ticks, especially
between the toes and in the ears.
2. Confine the dog to specific sleeping areas to
limit places of infestation.
3. Caulk crevices and cracks where ticks may
breed.
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4. Vacuum crevices and cracks, walls and
sleeping areas of the dog. Be sure to destroy the
ticks in the vacuum bag by burning, sunning or
freezing the bag.
5. Comb out the ticks with a flea comb. Be
careful not to break off the mouth-parts.
6. Apply fingernail polish or petroleum jelly to
embedded ticks an hour before gently removing
them with tweezers. Do not twist the tweezers.
Clean and apply antiseptic to the bitten area
after removing the tick.
7. Include fresh garlic to dog food (about four
cloves for a medium-sized dog) to repel ticks.
8. Frequent bathing in sea water is also said to
reduce a dog’s susceptibility to ticks.
Brown dog ticks can live for up to one and a half years
without food.
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Pests in the Garden
PESTS IN THE
GARDEN
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PESTS IN THE GARDEN
A
DOPTING THE ATTITUDE THAT SOME VISIBLE EFFECTS
of pest activity in your garden are tolerable is the
first step in proactive pest control. It is best to create
an environment that encourages a healthy presence of
natural enemies/predators of garden pests.
There are various species of plant bugs and insects that
attack vegetables, fruits and other parts of plants. Some
of the more common ones are addressed below
individually but some basic guidelines apply to most
animal garden pests in general.
General Control Guidelines
1. Encourage natural predators of pests – these
include frogs, spiders, birds and various beneficial
insects. Steadily increase the diversity in your
planting scheme, encouraging beneficial insect
and animal communities above and below the
ground. It is a good idea to leave the remains of
pests where they stand so as to attract their
natural enemies to feed on them. The remains
will serve as nurseries of these beneficials which,
in turn, will control future infestations of the
same pests.
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2. Practise crop rotation especially for vegetables.
Planting different crops in the same plot of soil
over different seasons may prevent fresh
reinfestations and widen the diversity of your
garden insect/animal communities.
3. Remove the pests by hand and prune infested
parts of the plant.
4. Knock the pest-insects off leaves and stems
with a strong stream of water.
5. Isolate infected plants if possible.
6. Use natural sprays made from garlic, onions,
citrus peels, red chillies, neem or coriander
(ketumbar in Malay). Pound the substance and
then boil in water for about ten minutes. Sieve
the solution before spraying. Crushed red chillies
can be left in water overnight. (Approximate
quantities: 1 kg onions/garlic/chillies: 20 litres
water. 1 part coriander leaves: 1 part water)
7. Some cooking oils like soybean, canola and
sesame oils have natural pesticidal properties.
Wipe them on the leaves or add them with a
little soap to the sprays mentioned above so that
the sprays will stick onto the leaves.
8. Some pests like grasshoppers and crickets are
hard to get rid of or deter. Wrap newly formed
fruits or vegetables with paper or plastic until
harvesting time.
9. Smoking a tree with incense may drive the
pests away.
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APHIDS
Name in Malay: afid
wingless aphid
winged aphid
Description
Plant lice that suck plant juices and leave behind a sticky
secretion. Can be green, reddish, black or yellow. Their
secretion may cover their bodies and make them appear
white and woolly. Attack a wide variety of vegetables,
fruits and house plants. Carry viruses of plant diseases
e.g., the mosaic virus which attacks tomatoes. Ants
tend to protect aphids in order to gain access to the
honeydew they excrete.
Control
1. Remove by hand or with a paint brush.
2. Wipe leaves of indoor plants with a cloth
dipped in light soapy water or light cooking oil.
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3. Leave the plants out in the sun for a while
everyday.
4. Place reflective foil between rows of plants
in the open. The reflection of the sky will confuse
the aphids and they will not attack the plants.
5. Use neem oil or garlic and onion sprays.
6. Spraying with a mixture of flour and water,
or a weak water-soluble glue solution will
suffocate the aphids and their eggs.
7. Use less highly soluble forms of nitrogen
fertiliser as aphid production is enhanced by high
nitrogen levels in plants. Instead use slow-release
fertilizers such as diluted fish emulsion or liquid
seaweed.
8. Grow flowers in the garden as many natural
predators of aphids are dependent on nectar and
pollen for breeding. For instance, gall midges
and lady beetles (kumbang kura-kura in Malay)
eat aphids.
gall midge
lady beetle
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9. Control the population of ants – they protect
aphids. Apply sticky barriers e.g., a band of sticky
material like grease to stalks of woody plants.
10. Follow general guidelines for garden pests.
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CATERPILLARS (AND WORMS)
Names in Malay: ulat bulu, ulat
caterpillar
cabbage looper
army worm
corn borer
Description
Caterpillars are young larvae of moths and butterflies.
They come in different colours and sizes. Chew leaves,
buds, fruits, stems and/or roots.
Control
*The controls listed here apply to garden pests such as
caterpillars, army worms (ulat ratus), cabbage loopers
(ulat kobis) and corn borers (pijat jagung). (Names in
Malay are given in parenthesis.)
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1. Manual removal of eggs and caterpillars/
worms.
2. Apply white/black pepper (lada putih/hitam
in Malay) or red chilli powder.
3. Spray with white pepper solution.
4. Neem leaves are a natural repellant and
neem seed kernel extract is a good larvicide.
5. Cover young shoots and vegetables with
protective mesh.
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FRUIT FLIES
Name in Malay: lalat buah
fruit fly
Description
Small and brown with yellow bands on their bodies.
Attack fruits and vegetables such as tomatoes. Breed in
fermenting substances such as decaying fruit. Adults
deposit their eggs under the skin of the fruit and the
larvae feed on the pulp. Larvae are white maggots that
move quickly.
Control
1. Collect fallen fruit as soon as possible.
2. Burn infested fruits to destroy the maggots.
3. Allow ducks, hens or geese to scavenge at
the base of fruit trees attacked by fruit flies.
They will eat the larvae pupating in the soil or
decaying fruit.
4. Burning incense around the affected trees
when they are about to fruit may help drive fruit
flies away.
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Pests in the Garden
MEALYBUGS
Name in Malay: koya koya
mealybug
Description
White, wingless, soft-bodied insects that secrete
honeydew. Suck out plant juices. Usually found on stems
or the underside of leaves. Live in the soil and feed on
roots of plants like the African violet.
Control
1. Remove adults and eggs manually.
2. Wipe affected leaves with wet cloth dipped in
light oil. Soybean, canola and sesame oils are
recommended.
3. Dab the insects with a cotton bud dipped in
alcohol or methylated spirit.
4. Soap or oil sprays may also be used.
5. Natural predators are the black and orange
lady beetles called ‘crypts’ (Cryptolaemus
montrouzieri)
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6. Control the presence of ants as they protect
mealybugs. Also limit the use of highly soluble
nitrogen fertilisers. (See aphids.)
7. Follow general guidelines for garden pests.
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Pests in the Garden
MITES
Name in Malay: hama
spider mite
cyclamen mite
Description
Tiny creatures with four pairs of legs. There are different
types. Presence detected by webbing and mottling of
foliage (leaves). Thrive in dry conditions.
Control
1. Wipe the leaves with a light soap solution.
2. Use a milk, oil, coriander, onion or sulphur
spray. (Note: some plants may be damaged by
sulphur. Also, do not use oil sprays and sulphur
within a week of each other – they are not
compatible.)
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SNAILS AND SLUGS
Names in Malay: siput babi, lintah
garden snail
slug
Description
Feed on young, succulent plants. Need damp, shady
places – like crevices, under boards, moist leaves, rocks
– to live and lay their eggs. May enter homes. Reproduce
by cross-fertilisation as well as self-fertilisation.
Control
1. Snails and slugs favour certain kinds of plants
so look out for where you find them the most.
Then thin out the plants in those areas so that
some sunlight reaches them and there is good
air circulation to dry out the soil.
2. Some mulches discourage snails and slugs. Try
sea salt or crushed eggshells (they irritate the
underside of the snail/slug and this can cause it
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Pests in the Garden
to die) and experiment with other plants/
materials to see what works.
3. Remove the pests by hand, especially at night
when snails are active. Put caught snails/slugs in
a solution of water and alcohol to prevent them
from crawling out of the container.
4. Trap them. Traps are especially effective after
rain or watering the garden.
a) Planks, overturned flower pots or inverted
grapefruit halves (after the contents have been
eaten) placed in moist, shady areas will attract
the creatures. You can remove them the next
morning and crush them with a stick. Crushed
snails/slugs are attractive to other snails.
b) Sink a smooth bowl into the ground in a
damp, shady spot in the garden. Fill it with liquid
bait such as beer or a mixture of water and
yeast. Or fill it with water and sprinkle bran on
top. The snails will fall into the bowl and drown.
5. Placing a copper band around the trunk of a
plant will prevent snails from climbing up.
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References
REFERENCES
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References
REFERENCES
References to Introduction Chapter
“Welcome to the Toxic World”
1.
Feldman, J. 1995 (September). Risk assessment, a
community perspective. Environmental Health
Perspectives, 103, Supplement 6. http://
www.ehponline.org/members/1995/Suppl-6/feldmanfull.html
2.
Moses, M. 1995. Designer Poisons - How to protect your
health and home from toxic pesticides. Pesticide Education
Center. San Francisco, USA.
3.
Xiomei, M.; P.A. Buffler; R.B. Gunier; G. Dahl; M.T. Smith;
et al. 2002. Critical windows of exposure to household
pesticides and risk of childhood leukemia. Environmental
Health Perspectives, 110 (9), 955-960.
4.
Alarcon, W.A.; G.M. Calvert; J.M. Blondell; L.N. Mehler;
J. Sievert; et al. 2005. Acute illnesses associated with
pesticide exposure at schools. JAMA, 294 (4), 455-465.
5.
Watts, M. 2005. Pesticides: Sowing Poison, Growing
Hunger, Reaping Sorrow. Policy Research and Analysis
(Vol.2). Pesticide Action Network – Asia and the Pacific.
Penang, Malaysia.
6.
Colborn T. 2002a. Clues from wildlife to create an assay
for thyroid system disruption. Environmental Health
Perspectives, 110, Supplement 3, 363-367.
7.
Colborn T. 2003. Neurodevelopment and endocrine
disruption. Environmental Health Perspectives, 112 (9),
944-949.
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8.
1999. Warning: Pesticides are dangerous to your health!
Stop endocrine disrupting chemicals. Pesticide Action
Network – Asia and the Pacific (PAN AP). Penang, Malaysia.
9.
Montague, Peter. 1999. Pesticides and aggression. http://
w w w. h e a l l . c o m / b o d y / h e a l t h u p d a t e s / f o o d /
pesticidesandaggression.html
10. 2003 (3 September). Mosquito coils help control certain
diseases, but release high levels of carcinogens. http://
www.ehponline.org/press/mosquito.html
11. Whyatt, R.M.; D.E. Camann; P.L. Kinney; A. Reyes; J.
Ramirez; et al. 2002. Residential pesticide use during
pregnancy among a cohort of urban minority women. In
Environmental Health Perspectives, 110 (5).http://
ehpnet1.niehs.nih.gov/docs/2002/110p507-514whyatt/
abstract.html (* This study found detectable levels of
pesticides in the blood and urine samples of pregnant
women living in the homes that used the pesticides.)
12. Lister, S. 2006. Household insecticides could double child
leukaemia risk. http://www.timesonline.co.uk/article/
0,13509-1988878,00.html
13. Azizi B.H.O. and R.L. Henry. 1991. The effects of indoor
environment factors on respiratory illness in primary school
children in Kuala Lumpur. International Journal of
Epidemiology, 20 (1), 144-150.
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References
Other References
1994. Pyrethrins and pyrethroids. Pesticide information profiles.
Extension Toxicology Network. http://extoxnet.orst.edu/pips/
pyrethri.htm
1999. Kamus Inggeris Melayu Dewan (An English Malay
dictionary). Dewan Bahasa dan Pustaka. Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia.
2002 (22 November). Low sperm count quality in rural areas
tied to herbicides, pesticides. http//www.ehponline.org/press
2003 (17June). Sperm quality may be damaged by agricultural
practices. http//www.ehponline.org/press
Curl, C.L.; Fenske, R.A.; and Elgethun, K. 2003.
Organophosphorus pesticide exposure of urban and suburban
preschool children with organic and conventional diets.
Environmental Health Perspectives, 111 (3). http://
www.ehponline.org/docs/2003/5754/abstract.html
Menon, L. 1993. Pests at Home. International Organisation of
Consumers Unions. Penang, Malaysia.
Olkowski, W.; W.S. Daar; and H. Olkowski. 1991. Commonsense pest control. The Taunton Press. Newtown, CT, USA.
Skinner, M.; C. Winner; and J. Tinney. 2005. Washington State
University Study Points to Role of Toxins in Inherited Disease.
News Service. Washington State University. http://
www.wsunews.wsu.edu/detail.asp?StoryID=5261
Vijayalakshmi K.; K.S. Radha; and V. Shiva. 1995. Neem: A user’s
manual. Centre for Indian Knowledge Systems, Madras, and
Research Foundation for Science, Technology and Natural
Resource Policy, New Delhi. India.
Ware, G.W. 1996. Complete guide to pest control – with and
without chemicals. Thomson Publications. California, USA.
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Appendix A
APPENDICES
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Appendix A
APPENDIX A
COMMON NATURAL PEST REPELLANTS
The common natural pest repellants recommended in this
book (like neem oil and citrus peel oil) can be found at
some local medicine stores or herbal stores. Alternatively,
it is also possible to make these concoctions at home.
1. NEEM
Name in Malay: mambu
The neem is a tall tree with bitter tasting leaves. It is
one of the most effective medicinal plants in India used
to treat a host of ailments like diabetes and heart
disease. It is reputed to have antibacterial, antifungal
and anti-inflamatory properties.
How to make neem seed kernel extract
Like many other trees, neem trees bear fruits once a
year. It is better to harvest the fruits rather than collect
fallen ones – fallen fruit in contact with the soil is
commonly infested with a dangerous fungus.
Make sure the fruits are yellow (not greenish yellow or
yellowish green) before harvesting. Put a plastic sheet
under the tree and beat the branches with a stick.
Collect the fallen fruit from the plastic sheet. Throw
away bad or mouldy ones.
Remove the pulp of the fruit by twisting the fruit between
thumb and index finger. The seeds should be milky white
in colour. Dry them upside down on a mat or sheet in
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the shade for two or three days. They should not be
exposed to rain or direct sunlight.
Store the seeds in well-aerated baskets or gunnysacks
(not in plastic bags) – they should be kept dry. The
seeds used to make the kernel extract should be between
3-7 months old.
1. Take 75 g of neem
seeds. Pound the seeds
gently, just hard enough
to break the seed coats.
Then remove the seed
coats and any bad
kernels. Pound the good
kernels (make sure no oil
comes out) into a fine
powder.
neem leaves
2. Mix the powder into one litre of light soapy
water (oily soap is better). Filter or sieve the
solution before using as a spray. The soap will
help the powder stick onto the leaves. Be sure
to cover the leaves completely with the spray –
on top and underneath them. Apply once or twice
a week.
How to make neem (seed) oil
Neem oil is quite easily found at local medicine/herbal
stores. However, if you wish to make it yourself, try
this method:
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Appendix A
Put some of the neem kernel extract/powder you made
earlier into a large bowl and add a small quantity of
water, just enough to form a paste. Knead the mixture
with the palm of your hand for a few minutes, pressing
the neem paste firmly against the side of the bowl until
the oil begins to come out. (1 kg of neem kernel extract
should produce about 150 ml of neem seed kernel oil.)
Neem oil is made up of a complex mixture of biologically
active compounds which act in various ways against
different insects – as repellant, feeding inhibitor, egglaying deterrent, growth retardant, steriliser and toxin.
It has been used for centuries.
Neem oil spray is more effective against aphids and
stem borers than neem seed kernel extract. Mix 30 ml
of neem oil thoroughly with 1 litre of water and a little
soap. Use immediately.
How to make neem leaf extract
Neem leaf extract is particularly effective against leafeating insects like grasshoppers, locusts and caterpillars.
1. Soak 1 kg of crushed/pounded green neem
leaves in 5 litres of water overnight. The next
day, filter the mixture and use it as a spray.
(This method is recommended over the next
one.)
2. Alternatively, you could boil the leaves in water
until the green colour disappears from the leaves.
Cool and filter the mixture before use.
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2. CITRUS PEELS
Name in Malay: kulit buah limau
Citrus peels contain limonene and linalool which are
effective insecticides against aphids, fleas, mites,
houseflies, fruit flies and many other insect-pests.
Home-made citrus peel oils are safe and can be used as
an effective insecticide for plants, humans and animals
(except cats which are sensitive to citrus peel mixtures/
oils). Mix the oil thoroughly in light soapy water and use
as a spray for plants. The oil can also be safely applied
to human skin to ward off insects.
How to make citrus peel oil
1. Place one quarter cup of cut citrus peels
(oranges, limes, lemons) in a plastic bag, seal
the bag and lightly tap the peels so as to crush
them lightly.
2. Mix the contents with a
cupful of light oil (e.g.,
almond, olive, soybean,
sesame or canola oil) in a
glass jar. Cover the jar
tightly and shake. Leave
the jar to stand in a warm
place (like the kitchen).
lime and orange
3. Drain out the contents into a muslin or
cheesecloth sieve and squeeze the remaining
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Appendix A
contents to get out as much oil as possible. Store
in a glass bottle with a tight cover in a cool,
dark, dry place. Will keep for up to six months.
Another recipe:
1. Tear mint leaves (pudina) and put these with
citrus peels in a clean glass jar. Heat light oil
(e.g., olive oil) to about 160 degrees and pour
over the leaves and citrus peels until they are
covered.
2. Cover the jar and let it stand in a dark place
for a few weeks.
3. Drain and store the oil in a cool, dark, dry
place.
3. GARLIC
Name in Malay: bawang putih
Garlic has antibacterial, antifungal and insecticidal
qualities. Garlic oil kills insect-pests but also kills
beneficial insects and microbes.
Thus, use it only on affected plants
and not as a general spray for the
whole garden. A garlic, neem oil
and soap combination produces
good results. Alternatively, soak
crushed garlic with water and
alcohol. Test spray first on a few
leaves for sensitive ornamental
garlic
plants.
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How to make garlic oil
1. Soak 100 g of finely minced garlic cloves in 2
teaspoons of any lightweight oil (e.g., canola,
sesame, soybean or neem) for at least 24 hours.
2. Slowly add 1 litre of water with some oily
soap mixed into it. Stir thoroughly and strain
into a glass jar/bottle for storage.
Use at a rate of 1 to 2 tablespoons of mixture to 1 litre
of water to make a spray.
4. CITRONELLA
Names in Malay: maha pengiri, serai wangi and serai
There are different types of
citronella plants. Citronella’s
main
constituents
are
citronellal and geraniol,
commonly used to make
perfumes.
Citronella
winterianus is known as maha
pengiri (or serai wangi) in
Malay. Lemon grass citronella
(serai) is a common plant in
Malaysia which is used in
cooking
and
to
repel
mosquitoes.
citronella pelargonium
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Appendix A
Citronella oil has been used for many years as an insect
and animal repellent. It is found in many insect repellent
products such as candles, lotions, gels, and sprays.
Citronella products are available from local medicine/
herbal stores. You can also tie citronella leaves in a knot
and put them in your cupboards and car as an ‘air
freshener’ as well as insect repellant.
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APPENDIX B
RESULTS OF SURVEY ON PESTICIDE
USE AND ALTERNATIVE PEST
MANAGEMENT METHODS –
CONDUCTED BY MR. ONG BOON
KEONG OF SOS FOR PAN AP (2004)
Survey location: Penang, Malaysia
Sample size: 223
1. Objective and Methodology of Survey: To collect
information on the use of pesticides in households in
Penang and to search for original/indigenous knowledge
on alternative pest control methods.
Methodology: questionnaire and interviews
2. Demographics of Respondents
a. Majority (over 90%) were aged 30 and above
with the biggest groups being between 40 and
60 years.
b. About three-quarters were men.
c. Over 60% were managers, executives and
professionals.
d. More than 75% were married and more than
half of the wives had jobs outside the home
(besides regular housework). About 64% had
children, from very young to over 12 years.
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Appendix B
e. Majority had at least Form Five (O-level)
education.
f. The dominant income group earned between
RM1,000 and RM3,999, followed by those who
earned less than RM1,000.
g. The largest group lived in the urban area,
followed by rural and sub-urban areas.
3. Use of Pesticides
a. An overwhelming majority (81%) of the
respondents used pesticides and spent an average
of RM49 per month on these. Popular methods
were spraying (use of aerosols) and poisons in
tablet or powder form.
Although most claimed to know what pesticide
they were using, only four respondents could
actually name the brand/company.
b. Demographics of pesticide users
In over 40% of the time, the pesticides were
applied by the respondents themselves. Therefore,
it is likely that the demographics of the pesticide
users are similar to those of the respondents.
Three-quarters were men, mostly aged between
40 and 60 years of age, married (with children),
and educated.
c. The three main reasons for using pesticides
were: ease of use, low price (cheap) and (the
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influence of) advertisements. Ironically,
‘effectiveness’ was not rated by suburban or rural
respondents as a critical factor.
d. The rural users were found to take most
precautions when using pesticides compared with
their suburban and urban (lowest level of caution)
counterparts.
e. The rural and suburban users reported a much
higher incidence of adverse effects (namely,
breathing difficulties, sneezing, coughing, eye
irritation and dizziness) from using pesticides than
the urban users.
4. Alternative Pest Management (APM)
About 49% of the respondents claimed to practise APM
(i.e., non-chemical pest control solutions). Common
methods included different types of traps, cleanliness
measures and keeping cats (to catch rats).
5. Comparisons between Pesticide and APM Users
a. The demographics of APM users were generally
similar to pesticide users. However, a slightly
bigger margin of those above 60 years of age
practised APM compared with the 40-49 age
group, who showed a preference for pesticides.
b. Families in which the wife/mother worked
outside preferred to use pesticides whereas
families where the wife/mother was a full-time
homemaker preferred APM.
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Appendix B
c. The level of education was not a factor in
pesticide–APM preferences.
d. Business entrepreneurs/managers/executives/
professionals preferred APM compared with
(lower-ranking) workers who preferred using
pesticides (for pest control in the office).
e. Business establishments also showed a
significant preference for APM over pesticides
compared with households which used pesticides
more than APM solutions.
f. Urban areas led in terms of both pesticide as
well as APM usage, followed by rural and suburban
areas. However, APM practice is less popular in
all three regions, implying the effect of
commercialisation of pesticides.
N.B. There is some overlap between the percentages
for pesticide and APM users because some respondents
used both.
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APPENDIX C
RESULTS OF SURVEYS ON PESTICIDE
USE AND ALTERNATIVE PEST
MANAGEMENT METHODS –
CONDUCTED BY ERA CONSUMERS FOR
PAN AP (2004)
Population Location: Selangor and Perak, Malaysia
ERA Survey 1: Pesticide Users
Sample Size: 209
information on the use of pesticides in households in
Selangor and Perak.
a) Most (57%) were business respondents in
various industries, namely textile (13%) and food
(10%).
b) Majority of the respondents (54%) were aged
30 – 49 years of age.
c) Fifty-one per cent were male and 49% were
female.
d) Approximately 73% were married while 27%
were single.
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Appendix C
e) Almost all the married respondents had
children. Around 43% had children over 12 years
of age while the remaining had children aged 12
and below (71% of whom had a child younger
than three years old.)
f) Forty per cent were non-clerical staff while
14% worked at management level. Approximately
17% were full-time homemakers.
g) Around 42% possessed SPM (0-level)
qualifications with 23% holding SRP (Form 3)
qualifications. Thirty-three per cent of
respondents did not answer this question.
h) Thirty-nine per cent earn a household income
of between RM 1,000 – 3,999 per month, followed
by 26% who earned less than RM 1,000 per month.
i) Sixty-two per cent of the respondents lived
in suburban areas while 35% lived in urban areas.
j) About 63% lived in landed properties while
30% lived in high-rise buildings (2-5 floors).
k) Most of the respondents (64%) did not have
air-conditioning in their homes.
3. Use of Pesticides
a) Eighty-eight per cent of the people who
applied the pesticides were adults. The pesticides
were purchased from grocery stores and
supermarkets. Aerosol sprays topped the list as
the most frequently used pesticide (63%).
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b) Approximately 44% did not show any
particular preference for any pesticide brand.
The rest had specific preferences for particular
local insecticide brands.
c) Majority of the respondents (94%) spent less
than RM50 on pesticides per month.
d) The three main reasons for using pesticides
were: (1) pests cause diseases, (2) ease of use
and (3) pests cause allergies.
e) Seventy-seven per cent said they took
precautions when using pesticides. Most (51%)
believed that pesticides were hazardous while
39% thought they were not (i.e., they were safe
to use). The remaining 10% did not know whether
pesticides were hazardous or not.
f) Most of the respondents learnt about
pesticides from advertisements on the television
and radio, and from their family members.
g) Around 50% stored their pesticides in the
cupboard while another 48% kept them in the
storeroom. The remaining 2% kept them in the
bedroom.
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Appendix C
h) Those using pesticides reported the following
reactions:
Coughing
38%
Eye irritation
32%
Sneezing
31%
Breathing problems
29%
Rashes on skin
16%
Dizziness
5%
Loss of appetite
5%
Hand tremors
2%
Bleeding
2%
(The percentages do not add up to 100% because
of multiple reactions by some.)
ERA Survey 2: APM Users
Sample size: 25 respondents
information on original/indigenous alternative pest
control methods in households in Selangor and Perak.
a) Business respondents numbered five (type of
business not given). The rest were home-based.
b) Thirty-six per cent of the respondents were
aged 30-39 years. Twenty-eight per cent were
in the 40-49 age group, 20% were in their
twenties and 16% were younger than 20.
c) Females made up the majority (64%) of the
respondents while 36% were male.
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d) Most respondents (76%) were married while
24% were single.
e) Twenty out of the 25 respondents had
children. Out of this, 37% had children over 12
years of age; the rest had children below 12
(ages from below 1 to 12 were quite evenly
spread out).
f) Forty-four per cent of the respondents were
non-clerical while 16% worked at management
level. Forty-four per cent of the respondents’
spouses were also non-clerical while 16% of them
owned their own businesses.
g) Twenty-four per cent had SRP qualifications
while 32% had Standard 6 (primary school)
qualifications.
h) Over half of the respondents earned between
RM1,000 – 3,999 per month and 40% earned less
than RM 1,000 per month.
i) Most (76%) lived in suburban areas with 20%
living in urban areas.
j) Sixty-eight per cent lived in high-rise buildings
(2-5 floors) and 32% lived in landed properties.
k) Majority of the respondents (76%) did not
have air-conditioning in their homes.
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Appendix C
3. APM Usage
a) Most (88%) of those who applied APM methods
were adults.
b) The reasons for using APM methods were (1)
cost savings, (2) health reasons, (3) greater
effectiveness and (4) familiarity with the
methods.
c) Knowledge of APM solutions came from family
members (52%) and community practices (48%).
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Appendix C
INDEX OF PESTS
Ants
Aphids
Army worms
Bed bugs
Booklice
Cabbage loopers
Carpet beetles
Caterpillars
Cigarette beetles
Cockroaches
Confused flour beetles
Corn borers
Fleas
Firebrats
Fruit flies
House dust mites
House flies
Indian meal moths
Lice
Mealybugs
Mosquitoes
Mice
Mites (on plants)
Rats
Rice weevils
Sawtoothed grain beetles
Scabies mites
Silverfish
Slugs
Snails
Snakes
Termites
Ticks
PAGE
27
77
80
29
31
80
34
80
55
36
55
80
61
31
82
63
38
55
66
83
41
45
85
45
55
55
68
31
86
86
48
49
70
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PLEASE SHARE YOUR APM SOLUTIONS WITH US
Dear Reader
Thank you for joining us in our efforts towards a safer,
cleaner world by obtaining a copy of this book. We hope
you have enjoyed reading it and that you will find it
useful and beneficial as you take the step towards
pesticide-free pest control methods.
The alternative pest control methods listed in this book
are not exhaustive. PAN AP welcomes and appreciates
input from enthusiastic APM practitioners as to other
successful natural methods not stated here. Please
provide as many details as possible. Do feel free to
write to us via post or email. Our addresses are as
follows:
Pesticide Action Network Asia and the Pacific (PAN AP)
P.O Box 1170, 10850 Penang, Malaysia.
Tel: (604) 6570271 & 6560381 Fax: (604) 6583960
E-mail: [email protected]
Thank you.
PAN AP
AMP-2.P65
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PESTICIDE ACTION NETWORK
ASIA AND THE PACIFIC (PAN AP)
Pesticide Action Network Asia and the Pacific (PAN AP)
is one of five regional centres of PAN, a global network
working to eliminate the human and environmental harm
caused by pesticides, and to promote biodiversity-based
ecological agriculture.
“Our vision is a society that is truly democratic, equal,
just, culturally diverse, and based on food sovereignty,
gender justice and environmental sustainability”. Thus
PAN AP asserts people’s food sovereignty based on the
right to food for all, founded on the right to land and
productive resources and the right of communities to
decide on our own food and agriculture policies. We are
committed to protect the safety and health of people
and the environment from pesticide use, and genetic
engineering in food and agriculture. We strive to protect
and promote the rights, equality and dignity of women.
We will promote and protect biodiversity based ecological
agriculture. Our goal is to strengthen people’s
movements to eliminate hunger and achieve food
sovereignty. We endeavour to achieve these goals by
empowering people within effective networks at the
Asia and the Pacific, and global levels.
Based in Penang, Malaysia, Pesticide Action Network Asia
and the Pacific is linked to more than 150 groups in 18
countries in the Asia Pacific region.
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APM cover.P65 - Pesticide Action Network Asia and the Pacific

Transcription

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