Biocontrol strategies: an eco-smart tool for integrated pest and diseases management

For the burgeoning global population, sustainable agriculture practices are crucial for accomplishing the zero-hunger goal. The agriculture sector is very concerned about the rise in insecticide resistance and the Modern Environmental Health Hazards (MEHHs) that are problems for public health due to on pesticide exposure and residues. Currently, farming practices are being developed based on microbial bio-stimulants, which have fewer negative effects and are more efficient than synthetic agro-chemicals. In this context, one of the most important approaches in sustainable agriculture is the use of biocontrol microbes that can suppress phytopathogens and insects. Simultaneously, it is critical to comprehend the role of these microbes in promoting growth and disease control, and their application as biofertilizers and biopesticides, the success of which in the field is currently inconsistent. Therefore, editorial is part of a special issue titled Biocontrol Strategies: An Eco-smart Tool for Integrated Pest and Disease Management which focuses on biocontrol approaches that can suppress the biotic stresses, alter plant defense mechanisms, and offer new eco-smart ways for controlling plant pathogens and insect pests under sustainable agriculture.

Automated summary

Sustainable agriculture is crucial for achieving zero-hunger goal. Concerns over insecticide resistance and the impact of pesticides on public health have led to the development of microbial bio-stimulants as alternative to synthetic agro-chemicals. One important approach in sustainable agriculture is the use of biocontrol microbes to suppress plant pathogens and insects. Understanding their role in growth and disease control is essential for successful application as biofertilizers and biopesticides in the field.