ICUP launches website with searchable proceedings

LOGO: ICUP

The executive committee of the International Conference on Urban Pests (ICUP) has unveiled ICUP.org.uk, a new website that offers searchable access to all papers and posters published in its nine previous conferences, since their inception in 1993. The site also offers a link to the forthcoming 10th ICUP at Pompeu Fabra University in Barcelona, Spain, which is set for Sept. 13-15, 2021. The link also still has its own URL, ICUP2020.com.

All papers and posters published in the ICUP Proceedings can be accessed on the site. All these documents are keyword searchable and can be downloaded, in full, free of charge. A “Contact Us” page can put users in touch with appropriate personnel for more information.

Every three years, ICUP brings together those with a professional interest in urban pests, from academia, industry, government and professional pest control, to share experiences, data and ideas.

According to a news release, “virtually 30 years of international urban pest science are chronicled — ranging from the advent of insecticide gel baits, the bed bug resurgence, the rise of rodenticide resistance, termite baiting techniques, invasive species, along with the development of natural products and biological agents. Amounting to over 1,000 papers and posters, this searchable facility is an outstanding reference resource for all those working within this sector.”

According to ICUP’s conference website, the initials of the organization will be relevant each day of the meeting. Edited for length, the definitions are as follows:

DAY ONE: “I” is for International. In terms of pest management, we can interpret “international” as a “no borders” situation to fight against pests. Globalization is one of the most relevant drivers of new and old pest invasions worldwide. The massive and quick movement of people and goods all over the world has facilitated the expansion of arthropod, mammal and bird pests. Once established in urban environments, they cause economic, health and structural damage. 

THROUGHOUT: “C” is for Conference. The conference is the space we have to discuss “I,” “U” and “P.” It is the forum for the exchange of technical and scientific ideas, the enhancement of communication, and cooperation among all those professionals working with urban pests worldwide.

DAY TWO: “U” is for Urban. Cities are artificial environments that can cause changes in the ethology and reproduction of “urban fauna.” Understanding these factors and changes is crucial to design and implement efficient urban pest management programs, especially in relation to urban disease vectors such as mosquitoes, sandflies and rodents.

DAY THREE: “P” is for Pests. The determination of  tolerance and economic impact thresholds to make decisions on pest management is not easy, and varies depending on different cities and social, cultural and legal factors. Moreover, new pests or “urban fauna”  are emerging in different parts of the world. Some traditionally non-urban animals like parrots, wild boars, scorpions and snakes, are increasing their impact in cities worldwide.