Lovebug Image Improvement: Proposal to Characterize It Like 'SpongeBob'
The Seoul Institute of Research recently presented a new approach to address the increasing complaints about lovebugs (red-tipped fly) pest control.
In the policy report titled 'Integrated Management Plan for Urban Pest Control in Seoul,' released on the 1st, it emphasized the need to prepare a coexistence strategy with lovebugs.
Coexistence Strategy
Particularly noteworthy is the suggestion to characterize lovebugs like the popular animated character 'SpongeBob SquarePants.'
The Seoul Institute of Research stated that there is a need for content development that combines interesting elements and storytelling rather than simple educational content. They mentioned, "Content that helps recognize harmless insects as eco-friendly organisms can enhance ecological education effectiveness," referring to 'SpongeBob,' which is based on marine biological knowledge, as a successful example.
The campaign for improving such perceptions encourages the active use of one-person media platforms like YouTube.
This aims to build a new image of lovebugs through platforms frequently used by government agencies and local governments as promotional tools.
The Importance of Climate Change and Eco-Friendly Pest Control
The Seoul Institute of Research projected that if the current trend of rising temperatures continues, lovebugs will spread throughout the Korean Peninsula by 2070. This prediction is based on the analysis of the Eastern Asia lovebug distribution probability prediction model.
However, the researchers expressed concerns about chemical pest control focused on pesticides.
Given the societal emphasis on the risks of household chemical products and biocides following the 2011 humidifier disinfectant incident, they advocate for a more eco-friendly approach. They stated, "After the humidifier disinfectant incident, the law concerning the safety management of household chemical products and biocides was enacted and enforced from January 1, 2019," adding, "Substances and products containing biocides manufactured or imported domestically require prior approval from the Ministry of Environment before sale and distribution."
The Seoul Institute of Research emphasized that pesticides should only be used as a last resort, citing examples of eco-friendly pest management strategies from developed countries. They noted, "Major international institutions prioritize 'minimizing the use of chemicals' as the foremost pest control standard within the basic concept of Integrated Pest Management (IPM)," and added that chemicals should only be used when non-chemical pest control is not feasible, ensuring minimal impact on humans and the environment.
Image Source: (Left) Lovebug / News1, (Right) SpongeBob / Online Community, Lovebug / News1
