Meet the expert: how is consumer-driven technology supporting safety and sustainability in the pest sector?

Consumer-driven technology is playing a pivotal role in the pest control sector. By integrating technology into pest management, we're not only enhancing safety but moving towards a more eco-conscious and effective approach to pest control. One example of this is the use of drones in the industry.

Drones are transforming the pest management industry and revolutionising how we tackle pest challenges, particularly with mosquito management. They represent a shift towards safer, more environmentally responsible and highly efficient pest control practices.

We spoke to our Director of Research and Innovation, Broox Boze, to find out more about how drones are being used in the field. She’s also the Technical Director for Vector Disease Control International which is our speciality business focused exclusively on large-scale mosquito control programmes – city, county and state level.

Scroll on to learn more about how Rentokil are harnessing technological advances to provide improved pest control services.

How are Rentokil using drones?

Rentokil are at the forefront of harnessing drone technology to revolutionise pest control. They're particularly useful because the drones have a predetermined flight pattern, so we can draw next to the boundary of the spray block and then the automated flight will take off and pick up where it left off on every individual swath. This automated programming that drones allow removes the potential for human error.

In our informative video, Broox Boze delves into the myriad benefits of drones for our customers and showcases how Rentokil employs them. Discover how drones are elevating larvicide applications, expanding coverage, and ensuring precision by eliminating human error. Watch the video below.

Why drones for pest control?

Drones give pest control experts much easier access to remote locations and this means customers can benefit from more precise treatment applications, enhancing pest control effectiveness. This also helps to minimise the use of pesticides, helping to protect ecosystems and non-target species. 

They also enable remote mosquito identification and treatment, protecting field technicians from the environmental hazards they would otherwise encounter when tackling mosquitoes in these regions. 

Watch the video below to learn more about why Rentokil chose to use drones to help with mosquito control.

How effective have drones been at supporting efforts to control mosquitoes?

Drones are highly effective in supporting mosquito control efforts. They’ve significantly reduced the environmental impact of these programmes while enhancing overall effectiveness. 

They provide consistent coverage, leading to more efficient control of mosquito habitats and an overall reduction in pesticide use. For more information, please watch the video below.

What are the advantages of using drones for mosquito control compared to more traditional methods of control?

Using drones for mosquito control offers several advantages over traditional methods, including increased efficiency and speed in covering large areas, precise and targeted application to reduce insecticide use and environmental impact and reduced human exposure to potentially harmful chemicals.

Watch the video below to learn from our expert about the advantages of using drones compared to more traditional pest control methods.

How are drones more sustainable than other methods of mosquito control?

Drones offer a more sustainable approach to mosquito control. They rely on battery-powered motors rather than gas-powered ones, reducing environmental impact. Furthermore, by conducting applications from 200ft above such habitats instead of being physically present in them, we can significantly reduce disturbances to wildlife and sensitive plant habitats.

For a deeper understanding of the sustainability benefits of using drones in mosquito control, please watch the video below.

What have been the key challenges related to this innovation and how have you overcome them?

As with most innovations, drone technology, despite the wealth of benefits it offers the pest control industry, has had its challenges. From safety and security concerns to legislative restrictions, Broox Boze outlines the key challenges related to this innovation and how Rentokil overcame them.

Where could drone technology go?

Drones are poised for a promising future, offering enhanced efficiency, safety and versatility. Innovations such as waterproof drones for aquatic habitat inspection, heat technology for surveys and high-efficiency cameras for targeted treatments showcase their potential. 

Hear from our expert in the video below to learn more about the future of drone technology. 

Incorporating consumer-driven technology into the pest control sector has ushered in a new era of safety and sustainability. Drones, in particular, have emerged as a game changer, revolutionising how we combat pests, especially in mosquito management. 

As we continue to harness the potential of drones, we’re driving pest control towards a safer, more sustainable and highly effective future. 

Want to know more about the pivotal role of consumer-driven technology in pest control beyond drones for mosquito control? Click here to learn about the exciting and revolutionary work we’re doing in this space.