Author(s):
The increasing global demand for food, coupled with growing concerns over the environmental and health impacts of chemical pesticides, has driven a shift toward more sustainable alternatives in crop protection. Next-generation biopesticides offer a promising solution by harnessing natural biological agents to control pests, diseases, and weeds with minimal environmental footprint. These biopesticides are derived from microorganisms, plant extracts, or natural products, and they present a safe, effective alternative to conventional chemical pesticides. Recent advances in biotechnology, genomics, and synthetic biology have accelerated the development of biopesticides, improving their efficacy, specificity, and application range. This paper explores the diverse types of biopesticides, including microbial, botanical, and biochemical agents, and their potential to revolutionize crop protection. We examine the benefits of biopesticides, such as reduced resistance development, enhanced biodiversity, and lower toxicity to non-target organisms. Additionally, the paper discusses the challenges associated with their widespread adoption, including regulatory hurdles, production costs, and market acceptance. By shaping the future of crop protection, next-generation biopesticides are positioned to play a key role in sustainable agriculture, enhancing food security while minimizing the environmental impact of farming
