Microemulsion formulation is among the most suitable carrier for the delivery of bioactive and, therefore, has excellent potential for industrial applications. The microemulsion system is thermodynamically and kinetically stable. Due to the smaller droplet size of the microemulsion system, the bioactive covers a larger surface of the target pest. Botanicals and essential oils, in particular, are green options to control various soil and seed-borne pathogens. Each oil contains several bioactive constituents that practically avoid microbe-resistance against it. Nevertheless, to improve the handling and shelf-life of botanicals, microemulsion formulation is the best option available. The current chapter provides the insight of a microemulsion system and explores the possibility of botanical oil-based biopesticides for a sustainable agro-ecosystem. We believe that botanical oil microemulsion could be a better alternative to synthetic pesticides and opens a new corridor for the promotion of the greener way of plant protection in India and across the globe.
Part of the book: Nano- and Microencapsulation
In this chapter, agricultural waste residue management by bio-organisms is discussed along with different types of decomposition processes. Tons of agricultural wastes are produced every year. These agricultural wastes create major environmental problems without effective means of management methods. There are many technologies being used for the decomposition, which mainly include anaerobic decomposition, compositing, fermentation, etc. All these decomposition processes depend upon the different soil-inhabiting microbes. These microbes are the key components of agri-residue decomposition process. Every step of decomposition requires different microbes. Various sets of catalytical enzymes are involved for the catabolic procedures of organic matter. By successive catabolic reactions, all the organic matters are mineralized into soil essential constituents, which will be the most effective sources of macro- and micronutrients for the soil fertility. Working efficiency of these microbes depends upon different parameters like moisture, temperature, pH, etc. The vitality and efficiency of microbes can be enhanced by using various inert carriers. If the efficiency of these soil microbes enhances by various factors, then the rate of decomposition could be enhanced to handle this ever-increasing problem of agriculture residue in near future.
Part of the book: Biotechnological Applications of Biomass
The agricultural sector of Asian countries supports 60% of the global population, accounting one-fifth of the world’s agricultural land. Despite the gap between demand and supply of food is gradually increasing due to the damages caused by insect and other pest attacks on the limited agricultural land, the pest attack has influenced the entire agriculture sector either directly or indirectly, causing socioeconomic losses. To combat, farmers have been using conventional agrochemicals nonjudiciously that lead to adverse effects such as pesticide resistance, environmental contamination, and non-target toxicity. In this regard, new-generation agrochemical formulation techniques are advantageous over conventional pesticides and play a vital role in sustainable agriculture by fulfilling the demand of over-rising food supply to feed the increasing population. These formulations exhibit desired bio-efficacy at lower doses and have minimum possibility to leave pesticide residues in crop products and the environment. Institute of Pesticide Formulation Technology (IPFT), Gurugram, is one of the leading institutes in Asia, which is actively engaged in developing new-generation formulations to deliver safer, efficient, and environment-friendly pesticide formulations. So far, IPFT has developed 60 pesticide formulations and transferred technologies to different agrochemical industries globally. The new-generation formulations developed by IPFT mainly include microemulsion, nanoemulsion, capsulated suspension, nano-encapsulation, an emulsion in water, mixed formulations including several botanical pesticide formulations. The new advancement in pesticide delivery systems is very supportive in combating the crisis faced by the agricultural sector. In this chapter, formulation of different new-generation pesticides and their advancement are summarized.
Part of the book: Agricultural Development in Asia
Global warming fuels pest infestations, causing massive crop losses and economic damage. Chemical insecticides, though initially effective, come with a heavy toll: environmental harm, health risks, and resistance development. Their overuse creates a vicious cycle, leading to even more pesticide use and devastating consequences for beneficial insects, soil, water, and human health making our current agricultural practices unsustainable. Phyto-insecticides derived from plants are safer and more sustainable alternatives that boast a long history of use and diverse modes of action, making it harder for pests to develop resistance. They pose lower risks to human health and the environment and can be produced sustainably from renewable plant sources. While promising, phyto-insecticides face hurdles. Limited plant biomass, variable effectiveness, and unstable formulations hinder their commercialization. However, innovative solutions are emerging: (1) callus culture: this technique offers a sustainable way to mass-produce valuable secondary metabolites like Azadirachtin and Pyrethrin; (2) understanding insect interactions: Deciphering how these compounds interact with insects paves the way for effective utilization and formulation design; (3) nanotechnology: nanoparticles enhance stability, bioavailability, and targeted delivery, boosting efficacy and reducing environmental impact. Excitingly, trace amounts of phyto-insecticide residues may offer additional benefits. Some compounds, like Azadirachtin, Piperine etc., possess potential nutraceutical properties, promoting bone health, managing diabetes, and even fighting cancer. This opens the door to “nutraresidiceuticals,” where food treated with phyto-insecticides might enhance consumer health. Phyto-insecticides hold immense potential as a sustainable and effective pest management strategy. By addressing challenges related to biomass, formulation, and understanding their modes of action, we can unlock their full potential for a healthier and more sustainable future. Additionally, exploring the potential “nutraresidiceutical” benefits opens up exciting new avenues for research and development.
Part of the book: Herbs and Spices - New Perspectives in Human Health and Food Industry [Working title]