Les biopesticides, compléments et alternatives aux produits phytosanitaires chimiques (synthèse bibliographique)

Biopesticides, a complementary and alternative approach to the use of agrochemicals. A review. Biopesticides are living organisms or products derived from them, which have the ability to suppress or to reduce pests. Biopesticides have been used for centuries by farmers and these products offer many advantages. Today, biopesticides are classified into three groups according to their origin (microbial, plant or animal). They can be used both in conventional agriculture and in organic farming. Some biopesticides allow plants to withstand abiotic stress and, in general, they are less toxic than their chemical counterparts. Although they often have the reputation for being less effective than chemical pesticides, biopesticides are the subject of growing interest among farmers, particularly in the context of Integrated Pest Management strategies. The marketing of biopesticides is facilitated in some regions, such as the USA, while in others, such as Western Europe, the approval process is long and expensive. The future development of biopesticides depends on many factors, such as government policies both in terms of research support and in regulating agribusiness strategies, and the evolution of consumer choice.