Actions to Accelerate Biocontrol – Copa Cogeca and IBMA Renew Five-Year Roadmap

IBMA (International Biocontrol Manufacturers Association) and Copa Cogeca, the united voice of farmers and agri-cooperatives in the EU, have renewed their five-year roadmap outlining key priorities and actions that will enable biocontrol Plant Protection Products (PPPs) to be better integrated into Integrated Pest Management (IPM) in all agricultural systems, offering farmers more sustainable and effective crop protection options.

The future of sustainable agriculture and plant protection in the EU should be built on adapting to farms’ realities, targeted research, and accelerating the adoption of biocontrol and other innovative plant protection tools. The goal is to enhance farmers’ toolboxes by ensuring effective, sustainable pest control solutions are readily available. Achieving this will require clear regulatory frameworks, efficient approval processes, robust training, and targeted financial support.

The joint roadmap identifies key priorities and actions to make this happen:

1. Establish a clear and harmonised definition of biocontrol PPPs at EU level
2. Ensure efficient and transparent approval of low-risk and biocontrol PPPs
3. Enhance EU-Wide Mutual Recognition and prioritization of biocontrol solutions
4. Strengthen resources and expertise for biocontrol
5. Support the uptake of biocontrol tools by farmers through financial incentives

“Since 2017, farmers have lost access to roughly one-third of their conventional plant protection tools. There is an urgent need to accelerate biocontrol. We are hopeful that the EU’s upcoming proposal to do so, expected at the end of the year, will empower us to act on the priorities outlined in our roadmap with Copa Cogeca.”

Jennifer Lewis, IBMA Executive Director

The EU’s agricultural sector is facing significant challenges due to the phase-out of essential plant protection products (PPPs) and the slow authorisation of alternatives. The loss of key PPPs threatens crop yields, quality, farm profitability, and the EU’s global competitiveness. Biocontrol and other alternative methods show promise, but they still need to become a full reality in the EU market. To achieve this, The EU must adapt its legislative frameworks by fostering innovation, streamlining regulations, supporting farmers, and ensuring cooperation among stakeholders to maintain productivity, sustainability, and competitiveness.”

Elli Tsiforou, Secretary General of Copa and Cogeca

You can download the road map here.

If you would like to learn more about the roadmap, please contact Isabelle Pinzauti Babrzyński, IBMA Senior Advocacy and Outreach Manager,isabelle.pinzauti@ibma-global.org