Alternative Strategies for Reducing Neonicotinoids Use

The introduction of synthetic chemicals into agricultural setups is currently facing immense criticism due to rising ecological concerns. Neonicotinoids are a potential group of insecticides with known harms against pollinators, honeybees, and humans. The present chapter deals with alternative strategies for insect control being advocated in this regard. The alternatives to neonicotinoids are grouped into physical, chemical, and biological categories with the later one being the most ecologically sustainable. Physical methods are labor-intensive and manual whereas chemical-based alternatives mimic the juvenile hormone that causes early molting in insects. The biological alternatives are the most widely used alternatives characterized by the utilization of plants, microorganisms, and animals. Phytopesticides like plant extracts and essential oils, microorganisms like bacteria, fungi, and viruses and animal-based alternatives. The use of natural products contributes to biodiversity conservation, reduced reliance on chemical inputs, and long-term pest suppression through the prevention of resistance development.