Pesticides, Biopesticides and Biological Control Agents in Agriculture

The document addresses the challenge of feeding a growing global population while ensuring environmental sustainability. It examines the critical but problematic role of conventional pesticides, noting issues such as soil degradation, health risks to farmers, and the evolution of pest resistance. The text advocates for Integrated Pest Management (IPM) and distinguishes between biological control agents (predators, parasitoids, and pathogens) and biopesticides (microbial, biochemical, and plant-derived). Furthermore, it introduces the BioBIVE project’s objectives, which include developing delivery systems for bioremediation and biofertilizers to improve food supply chain health.