EU BPR Approved Pest Repellent Masterbatches by CTech Corporation
CTech Corporation, based in Mumbai, India, has received EU Biocidal Product Regulation (EU BPR 528/2012) approval for its non-toxic, plant-based repellent masterbatches. Products like RodrepelTM, TermirepelTM, and CombirepelTM offer environmentally safe, sustainable solutions to protect biobased plastics from pest attacks such as rodents, termites, ants, and bedbugs. These masterbatches are thermally stable, low-dose, and effective in biodegradable plastics like PLA, with applications in packaging, agricultural nets, wires, and more. They are globally trademarked, eco-friendly, and developed through a blend of ancient Vedic knowledge and modern encapsulation science.
Pooping Pigeons Prove Problematic for Properties with Solar Panels
Pigeons, particularly the introduced common grey pigeon, are nesting under solar panels in suburban areas, causing damage by clogging drains, reducing panel efficiency, and attracting pests. Experts warn that DIY solutions are ineffective and can void warranties, while the birds are considered a pest due to their impact on native species and property integrity.
GOAL Responding to New Desert Locust Outbreak in Ethiopia
GOAL Ethiopia is addressing a new desert locust infestation threatening agricultural livelihoods and food security, particularly in the Oromia region, including Teltelle, Dillo, and Dhas districts. The outbreak follows a severe infestation last year and compounds existing food insecurity due to COVID-19, displacement, and high food prices. Swarms are migrating from eastern Ethiopia and central Somalia, impacting 3,211 households, 3,275 hectares of crop land, and nearly 8,000 hectares of grazing land. Early control measures and community support are critical to prevent a humanitarian crisis.
Crested Rats with Poisonous Hairdos Lead Sociable, Purring Family Lives
Crested rats in East Africa use toxic bark from arrow poison trees to coat their fur, creating a defensive hairdo that deters predators. Contrary to beliefs that they are solitary, scientists discovered these rats form close, affectionate bonds, often purring, grooming each other, and living in family groups with young. The rats show no signs of illness after handling toxins and exhibit highly social behaviors, challenging previous assumptions about their nature.
JNUSU Termite Infestation: Lab Damage and Research Loss at JNU
Researchers at JNU's Centre for the Study of Regional Development claim that a termite infestation, worsened by leftover scrap and seepage, has destroyed rare samples and damaged the TL/OSL laboratory, which has remained locked since March. Despite repeated appeals to the administration, no action has been taken, and researchers have lost years of PhD work, now working externally to salvage their research.
Staffordshire Couple's Spanish Dream Turns into Nightmare as Fire Destroys Home
A couple from Staffordshire moved to Spain with dreams of opening a luxury bed and breakfast, but a fire shortly after arrival destroyed their home due to hidden termite infestation and poor construction. The fire, which started in the fireplace, revealed extensive structural damage and led to a loss of their renovation budget. They now need 150,000 euros to rebuild and are living in the unsafe, partially damaged basement of their former home.
Liverpool Restaurant Owner Charged with Food Hygiene Breaches After Mouse Infestation
A Liverpool restaurant owner, Dove Ross-Williams, was charged with three counts of breaching food safety and hygiene regulations after health inspectors found a severe rodent infestation, including 27 mice, following a visit on August 16, 2019. The inspection revealed mouse droppings in food preparation areas and on stored food, leading to a zero hygiene rating. The owner voluntarily closed the restaurant for two weeks and later hired a new pest control company. He pleaded guilty and was fined £3,050.
European Forests Have Become More Vulnerable to Insect Outbreaks
A new study finds that European forests have become significantly more vulnerable to insect pest outbreaks since 2000, particularly due to climate change. Rising temperatures increase water stress in trees, making them more susceptible to bark beetle infestations. While wildfires and windthrows have remained relatively stable, insect outbreaks are now causing widespread damage across the continent, with the Czech Republic experiencing a dramatic increase in infestations.
Disgusting 'Rat House' Hoarder Home in Australia Sparks Community Outrage
Residents in Hasting, Victoria, are demanding action after a nearby home filled with garbage and infested with hundreds of giant rats is dubbed 'Rat House'. Neighbours report nightly rodent activity, a foul stench, and fear of vermin spreading to their homes. Despite multiple complaints and photos submitted in 2019, the council initially did not act. A clean-up began on February 22, 2021, with specialist cleaners and pest control measures set to continue until the property is clear.