Chapter 17 - Biopesticides versus synthetic pesticides usage in Africa

Abstract

Because of climate change, the emergence of crop pests and disease infestations many of which are resistant to chemical pesticides has resulted in low agricultural productivity, thus calling for the use of biopesticides. Over the years, synthetic chemical pesticides have been employed to control plant pests for improved food production. However, their use can contribute to negative ecological influence, making them unfriendly to the environment, organisms, plants, soil, and aquatic life. Also, their accumulation in food chains threatens human and animal health. Equally, chemical pesticides are sometimes used for other purposes besides what they were manufactured for. For instance, in many developing countries chemical pesticides are employed postharvest on crops on fruit ripening for the control of insects and other pests. In humans, chemical pesticides can lead to disease emergence, such as hemoglobinemia, cancer, kidney disease, etc., which reduces life expectancy and threatens food security. Hence, the promotion of safer and alternative biopesticides is important. Biopesticides, which have been reported to be effective in controlling plant diseases and pests, are safer than synthetic pesticides, but with some challenges, such as a slow mode of action, a short shelf life, various technical difficulties in formulation and storage, lack of experience in their use among farmers, and limited commercial availability. Therefore, this review aims to evaluate both synthetic and organic pesticides, their benefits, constraints, and prospects to improve crop productivity and ensure food security.