Finding a key solution to maintain the health of crops through proper culture is an existing concern among farmers. You may be intimidated by the world of pesticides due to the growing exploration of various alternative pesticide options among agro traders.

In recent years, natural-based products gain popularity for several problems. Therefore, many people shifted their focus towards biopesticides as a safer alternative. But it is important to note that just because a substance is natural doesn’t mean that it is safe. Sometimes the toxic substances on earth are naturally made by living organisms.

However, biopesticides are increasingly adopted among consumers as a major and effective source of healthy cultivation due to the rising awareness regarding the drawbacks of chemical-based pesticides and their effect on the environment.

Understanding the Meaning of Biopesticides

Biopesticides are basically biological living organisms that are sprayed on crops to control or kill pests. It contains active ingredients of natural or biological origin. They are generally derived from plant extracts, animals, microorganisms, bacteria, minerals, and other materials that have pesticidal properties. They are mainly classified into two main categories: biochemical and microbial.

Biochemical includes naturally occurring bioactive compounds, such as plant extracts and organic acids. Whereas, microbial use living organisms, such as yeasts, fungi, bacteria, and protozoans. Microbial include bioinsecticides, bioherbicides, and biofungicides.

Organic pesticides are not much toxic compared to synthetic pesticides as they are not harmful to non-targeted organisms. But it doesn’t mean that they won’t cause the environment. Because the purpose of both pesticides is the same. Active ingredients are at much higher concentrations to kill pests, even if they are derived from natural sources.

Biopesticides vs. Conventional Pesticides

• Biopesticides include naturally occurring bioactive substances that are directly derived from nature. They are effective in a very low quantity that is targeted to specific pests.
• Conventional pesticides are produced from various chemical alteration, which is sprayed on the crop to kill pests. It is harmful to plants as well as human health.

Why is Biopesticides are in High Demand?

Biopesticides have several merits compared to chemical pesticides. They are ecological and species-specific, which does not affect the crops. These pesticides are environmentally friendly as they help to minimize soil pollution and erosion. The trend of using biopesticide revived, due to the rising awareness about its superior advantages and benefits among consumers.

Rising demand for organic food among consumers and growing concerns regarding the use of chemical-based pesticides leaves a positive impact on the adoption of biopesticides. Furthermore, increasing government initiatives towards organic farming and rising investment in the research of novel species have increased the acceptance of the product.

Market Valuation Insight

The wide adoption of biopesticides is largely influenced by the rising popularity of organic farming owing to the increasing demand for high-quality food products along with safety. Furthermore, the rising adoption of new farming practices fuels the growth of the market.

With the trend, the global biopesticides market size was valued at USD 4.82 Bn in 2020 and is projected to reach USD 12.27 Bn by 2028, expanding at a CAGR of 15.78% during the forecast period, 2021–2028.

Some of the major players competing in the global biopesticides market are Marrone Bio Innovations; Vipesco; UPL; Certis USA; and Valent BioSciences. Looking at the whole scenario, the prominent players shifting their focus to increasing the market share by launching new products and expanding their production units with new advancements.

Conclusion

Biopesticides produce less toxic residue than conventional pesticides, which reduces the risk to human health. It avoids soil degradation as it decomposes quickly. It works as an essential component in the modern integrated pest management concept. The lower exposure, safety, and efficiency of organic products highly encouraged consumers to adopt biopesticides for good crop production.