Business Local News Rentokil launches eco-friendly termite prevention product Sheria Brathwaite05/09/20240616 views Regional technical manager, Caribbean of Rentokil Initial Barbados Radan Jean (left) showing a sample of Termifilm as sales manager of export groupe Berkem Thomas Dassie looks on. entokil Initial Barbados has introduced a new eco-friendly termite prevention product, Termifilm, aimed at addressing environmental concerns associated with traditional pest control methods. The launch took place on Tuesday at the Courtyard Marriott resort, where Paula Jackman, general manager of the pest control agency, highlighted the need for greener solutions in the pest control industry. During her presentation, Jackman acknowledged the widespread apprehension regarding chemical usage in pest management and its potential impact on the environment. She expressed the company’s commitment to developing sustainable solutions that property owners can implement to prevent pest infestations. Termifilm is designed as a pre-construction termite treatment, applied before the foundation of a building is laid. The product consists of a polyethylene film treated with 2.5 per cent permethrine, which acts as both a physical and chemical barrier against termites and moisture. This innovative approach aims to pre-emptively tackle termite issues, which can lead to significant damage if left unchecked. Jackman pointed out that termites are among the most destructive pests, often going unnoticed until visible damage occurs. She estimated that Barbadians spend approximately BD$1 million annually on home repairs due to subterranean termite damage. “Termifilm is a fraction of the cost of home repairs and is essentially an investment in future savings,” she said. The product has been approved by the FCBA, a European-based non-governmental organisation that oversees technical and industrial certification in wood preservation and termite treatments. Termifilm is touted as the only eco-friendly termite treatment available in Barbados, with Jackman emphasising its suitability for sensitive environments, including allergen-free housing. Unlike traditional methods that require drilling or chemical injections, Termifilm’s application does not involve soil disruption, reducing its environmental impact.