Biologics: The Root of a Greener Revolution

This week we focus on the green on our planet and look into the role of Biologics in making agriculture sustainable. It’s easy to overlook, but traditional farming methods, with all their chemical fertilizers and pesticides, have been putting a serious strain on our planet. That’s where biologics come in—think of them as nature’s own way of helping crops grow and stay healthy, without all the harmful side effects. If you care about clean soil, safe food, and a greener future, it’s time to pay attention to biologics. They’re changing the game, making farming more sustainable, and giving the environment a much-needed break.

The Green Revolution in the mid-20th century brought incredible advancements in agriculture, including crop genetics, biotechnology, irrigation, and the use of synthetic fertilizers and pesticides. While these innovations initially led to huge increases in crop yields, they also came with some downsides, like overreliance on monocropping, fossil-fuel-based fertilizers, and intensive chemical use. Unfortunately, these practices have taken a toll on the environment, harming soil health, reducing long-term fertility, and even raising concerns about consumer health.

But there's a way to address these challenges—by turning to agricultural biologicals. These natural products can play a key role in promoting sustainable farming, offering biological crop protection while also enhancing production.

Biologic crop solutions include biopesticides, biofertilizers, and biostimulants, all derived from natural sources like microorganisms, plant extracts, and even beneficial insects. These products help build healthier soil, support a vibrant soil microbiome, and boost plant growth—all without leaving harmful residues or causing health risks. As a sustainable alternative to traditional chemical pesticides and fertilizers, biologicals reduce environmental impact and lay the groundwork for eco-friendly farming practices. The figure below shows a comparison between conventional and sustainable farming with biological solutions.

Agricultural biologicals can be used in combination with chemical pesticides and fertilizers as part of integrated pest management (IPM) programs or as standalone options for protecting crops against diseases, pests, and weeds. These products are typically grouped into three main categories:

1. Biopesticides: These target specific pests without harming beneficial species and include: Microbial pesticides: Made from microorganisms like fungi, viruses, and bacteria, these are toxic to specific pests. Biochemical pesticides: Non-toxic substances derived from natural materials that disrupt pest activity, like insect mating. Plant-Incorporated Protectants: Produced by genetically modified crops to target specific pests.
2. Biostimulants: These stimulate natural processes that boost nutrient availability, improve crop tolerance to environmental stress, and enhance quality and yield.
3. Biofertilizers: Containing microorganisms that improve plant growth by enhancing nutrient acquisition, biofertilizers are categorized into the following groups Nitrogen fixers Phosphate stabilizers Phosphate mobilizers Micronutrients Plant growth-promoting rhizobacteria

While biologicals might not fully replace traditional agrochemicals, they are a vital part of IPM programs. The agricultural biologicals market has seen exciting innovations, particularly in sourcing and gene editing. These advances promise more sustainable farming by promoting natural processes and reducing environmental impact. As the organic farming movement continues to grow, the use of biological solutions is only expected to rise.

References:

1)?? https://www.rootsanalysis.com/blog/agricultural-biologicals-for-a-sustainable-future/#:~:text=In%20agriculture%2C%20biologic%20crop%20solutions,insects%2C%20or%20other%20natural%20sources .

2)?? https://croplife.org/case-study/what-are-biological-and-why-are-they-important/

3)?? https://blog.perkinelmer.com/posts/agricultural-biologics-innovating-for-a-healthy-and-sustainable-future/

4)?? BAYSAL, ?MüR, and Mahmut Toer. "Smart biologics for crop protection in agricultural systems."?Journal of Agriculture and Forestry?38.5 (2014): 723-731.