Insights into bioherbicide development – What research findings and technologies are promising in bioherbicide adoption?

Biopesticides have been experiencing double digit growth driven by increasing demand for sustainable agricultural practices. However, despite the huge need for new herbicides, only very few active substances of bioherbicides have been successfully developed, and bioherbicides are an insignificant percentage of the biopesticide market.

Since the first registration of bioherbicide in 1981, around 40 active substances have been launched. Within this, only 15 are currently available. And there are 11 bioherbicide active substances are in development phase, according to Dr Peter Chalmers, Senior Partner APAC at AgBioScout.

To understand the latest advancements in bioherbicide development, Dr Peter Chalmers will give a speech at BioEx 2024. His presentation is a review of all registered bioherbicide products, relevant patents and research papers from the past 15 years. The initial search yielded over 600 companies with products, over 20,000 patents, and over 30,000 research papers. After a thorough evaluation, the most promising products, patents and active substances were identified.

The development speed of active substances through the Technology Readiness Level (TRL) scale would increase by optimizing the delivery method for lead active substances from biological sources, combined with formulations designed to maximize field efficacy. It has been shown at field-scale that, with a well-run system, bioherbicides can be effective and sustainable alternatives to synthesis herbicides. 

In addition, the digital and robotic technologies for bioherbicide application will help in overcoming certain difficulties in adopting IPM. Leveraging innovative technologies plays a key role in unlocking the potential of these bioherbicides.

Join us at BioEx 2024 to find more details.