Biological Pesticides as Viable Alternative to Synthetic Pesticides for Sustainable Agriculture and Nutrition: A Systematic Review 

Assefa et al., 2026

The overuse of synthetic pesticides in agriculture has raised significant environmental and health concerns. Biopesticides have emerged as viable, environmentally compatible alternatives. However, recent comprehensive reviews integrating all biopesticide categories and emphasizing their contribution to synthetic-pesticide-free and health-safe products remain limited. This PRISMA-based systematic review synthesizes 98 peer-reviewed studies. It evaluates the main categories of biopesticides: microbial, biochemical, and plant-incorporated protectants (PIPs), their roles in sustainable agriculture and integrated pest management (IPM), as well as the future trajectory of biopesticides. Microbial agents (bacteria, fungi, viruses) show strong target specificity and reduced environmental persistence. Biochemical pesticides, derived from plant extracts and pheromones, disrupt the behavior or physiology of pests with minimal non-target toxicity. PIPs, developed through genetic engineering, provide crop-embedded protection and greatly reduce chemical inputs. Despite these advantages, inconsistent field performance, short shelf life, regulatory hurdles, and low farmer awareness limit commercialization. Innovations such as RNA interference (RNAi), Nano-formulations, and microbial consortia offer promising solutions. This review underscores the need for better delivery systems, harmonized regulations, and coordinated outreach to accelerate adoption. Overall, biopesticides are a scientifically robust and essential component of sustainable crop protection.

https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1002/sae2.70139