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The 2019 Legislative Session, Termite Season & Can We Live A Plastic-Free Life?

Alejandra Martinez
Misidentification of termites is a major problem, says University of Florida urban entomologist Dr. Thomas Chouvenc.

The 2019 legislative session began yesterday with Governor Ron DeSantis' State of the State address. DeSantis discussed his commitment to the environment and economic growth. Miami Herald/Tampa Bay Times reporter Elizabeth Koh was at the address and has been following the start of session in Tallahassee. Koh joined Sundial to talk about the major bills ahead of lawmakers and what priorities for session.

The start of spring signifies termite breeding season. According to the National Pest Management Association, termites cause over $5 billion in property damage annually. In Florida, there are 21 species of termites, but there is one in particular to look out for: the asian subterranean termite. Sundial spoke to University of Florida urban entomologist Dr. Thomas Chouvenc about which species of termites are most likely to populate homes and how they can be removed.

And plastics play a major role in our everyday lives. So, would it be possible to live a plastic free life? South Florida cities like Coral Gables, Delray Beach and Fort Lauderdale have passed legislation to ban certain plastic items like straws and bags. However, two bills in committee in Tallahassee would put a moratorium of five years on plastic bans. We spoke to Coral Gables Vice Mayor Vince Lago and local advocate Andrew Otazo about plastic-free policies and the realities of living without plastic.

Watch our video with termite expert Dr. Thomas Chouvenc.