A Review on Eco-Friendly Pesticides and Their Rising Importance in Sustainable Plant Protection Practices

The increasing environmental and health concerns associated with conventional pesticides have catalyzed a significant shift toward the development and application of eco-friendly pesticides within the agricultural sector. It proceeds to trace the historical transition from chemical-based to eco-friendly pest control methods, outlining key milestones and driving forces behind this shift. A diverse range of eco-friendly pesticides, including biological, botanical, and mineral types, are then explored, with an emphasis on their unique modes of action and comparative efficacy to synthetic alternatives. It also addresses the multitude of benefits these pesticides present, from reducing environmental contamination and preserving biodiversity to offering economic advantages and enhancing public health and safety. Case studies illustrating successful implementation across various climates and crops underscore the practicality and adaptability of eco-friendly pesticides. It also critically assesses the challenges that currently hinder broader adoption, including questions regarding efficacy, economic and regulatory hurdles, and logistical constraints. It then projects into the future, speculating on innovative research directions, policy initiatives, and educational strategies that could support the growth and integration of eco-friendly pesticides into mainstream agriculture. The potential for nanotechnology and genetic engineering to revolutionize pesticide application and crop resistance is particularly highlighted, along with anticipated developments in global policies and regulatory frameworks. It also offers targeted policy recommendations to support the research and development of eco-friendly pesticides and best practices for their integration into farming and agribusiness operations, emphasizing the importance of IPM and collaborative knowledge-sharing networks. The synthesis of current knowledge with future perspectives provides valuable insights for stakeholders across the agricultural sector, advocating for informed decisions and strategic actions that align with environmental sustainability and human health objectives. Through such multidimensional analysis, the review articulates a clear vision for the role of eco-friendly pesticides in the evolution of sustainable agricultural systems.