Poster Presentation International Plant Molecular Biology Conference 2024

AN ASSESSMENT OF BIOPESTICIDES COMPARED TO SYNTHETIC PESTICIDES IN CROP FIELDS. A CASE OF ZIMBABWE PLANTATIONS (#68)

CLIVE KUDZAI C GOVAH 1
  1. FORESTRY COMMISSION, HARARE, Zimbabwe

 

Biopesticides have gained increasing attention as a sustainable and environmentally friendly alternative to conventional chemical pesticides for pest management in agricultural practices. This abstract provides an overview of the current status of biopesticides in Zimbabwe, including their regulation, usage, benefits, and challenges. Zimbabwe, with its diverse agricultural landscape and unique ecological characteristics, faces various pest challenges that impact crop yield and quality. The use of biopesticides offers an effective and sustainable solution to manage pests while minimizing the negative impact on human health and the environment.These products can act through various modes of action, such as interfering with pest physiology, disrupting pest behaviour, or inducing plant resistance. However, several challenges persist in the widespread adoption of biopesticides in Zimbabwe. These challenges include the limited availability of registered biopesticides for certain pests or crops, the need for further research and development to improve efficacy and stability, and the cost-effectiveness of biopesticide production and application compared to conventional pesticides. To overcome these challenges, it is essential to foster collaboration between researchers, industry stakeholders, and regulatory bodies. Investment in research and development, education and training programs, and financial incentives can facilitate the development and adoption of biopesticides in Zimbabwean agriculture. Lastly biopesticides offer a promising avenue for sustainable pest management in Zimbabwean agriculture. With appropriate support and strategic initiatives, biopesticides can contribute to a more environmentally friendly and resilient agricultural sector while addressing the challenges posed by pests and diseases.