Biopesticides – Expectations for Control Jeanette Gaultier, Crops Knowledge Centre, Manitoba Agriculture, Food and Rural Initiatives, Carman, MB R0G 0J0 Email:
[email protected] A biopesticide is a naturally occurring organism or substance that can be used to control pests. The term ‘biopesticide’ can be applied to microorganisms, biochemicals and plant extracts that are used as pest control products. Although not the case in Canada, some countries also consider plants with ‘incorporated protectants’ (i.e. transgenic crops) as biopesticides. Interest in biopesticides is increasing because such products are often recognized as ‘reduced’ or ‘low’ risk alternatives to conventional pesticides. In Canada, a pesticide is considered to be of reduced risk if human health and/or environmental risks are decreased relative to other pesticides registered for the same use. General characteristics of reduced risk pesticides include (PMRA, 2002): • Low toxicity; • Limited effects on non-target organisms; • Good environmental profile; • Low pest resistance potential; • Decreased application rates or applications; and • Compatible with integrated pest management principles. A product doesn’t have to be a biopesticide to be considered reduced risk. Conversely, biopesticides are often, but not always, classified as reduced risk. Biopesticides currently account for only a small percentage (~1%) of the global pesticide market (Copping and Menn, 2000; Warrior, 2000; Rodgers, 1993). These products have generally found commercial success in niche markets such as horticulture, greenhouse, nursery and ornamental, and organic production. Uptake and use of biopesticides in conventional field crop agriculture remains low. Why is this the case? What should agricultural producers expect from biopesticides? Regulatory Expectations All pesticides, including biopesticides, available for use in Canada are regulated by Health Canada’s Pest Management Regulatory Agency (PMRA).