Substitution policies as a categorization process. Making biological alternatives a solution for the French national pesticide reduction plan

Abstract

This article focuses on the emergence and implementation of a specific policy option in a national plan aiming to reduce pesticide consumption: the substitution of biological substances for chemicals. I argue that substitution is a singular method of handling the removal of pesticides and analyze the political consequences of this approach. Empirically, this work is based on a three-year qualitative investigation (2015–2018) into the French policy plan for pesticide use reduction (Ecophyto). Drawing on the literature on categories and classifications, I show that making substitution a viable policy option relies primarily on categorization processes and on the establishment of clear distinctions. By shedding light on the specific type of administrative and technical intervention substitution as a policy option requires, the aim of this paper is to contribute to a better understanding of the political dimension of transitions.