Are the insecticides used to control locusts harmful to the environment?
The insecticides used for controlling locusts are toxins and must be handled carefully. There is no evidence that APLC control operations have had any major or long-term impact on the environment. The APLC operates in an environmentally responsible manner and is pro-active in conducting research to monitor any possible effects on non-target organisms. The APLC maintains a strict 1.5 kilometre buffer zone between a sprayed target and any sensitive areas downwind. Research on the effect of fenitrothion on non-target grassland invertebrates showed that while the insecticide significantly reduced the density of some insect species immediately after spraying, populations recovered rapidly and there was no detectable effect on community structure. Currently, APLC environmental research is focussed at looking at the effect of locust control agents on vertebrates (birds, mammals and reptiles) and invertebrates (ants, springtails and termites). For further details see APLC Environmental Researc
