Nowadays, organic pest control agents are a firm part of the greenhouse. Growers are eager to use armies of predatory mites, bugs and parasitic wasps in the fight against pests. In a European context, there are concerns about the spread of such pests, among other things. Among other options, the (extra) use of organic pest control agents is being considered.
In the Dutch Agriculture and Fisheries Council last week, parliamentary parties of outgoing LNV minister Carola Schouten wanted to know what her position is on this. Schouten then stated that she was 'strongly in favor' of the use of organic pest control agents for plant pests. Predatory mites and parasitic wasps, among others, can serve as an alternative to (chemical) crop protection agents.
Fighters against invasive exotic species
If it were up to Schouten, scientific research will be conducted into the (additional) possibilities of biological control agents. It is up to the European Commission to do this.
Research is currently already being carried out into the application of organic pest control agents for the control of invasive exotic species. This would make them an alternative to chemical weed control.
Photo: WUR from item on 'beasties'