In a landmark decision for sustainable agriculture, the European Union has officially approved Phthorimaea operculella granulovirus (PhopGV) as a low-risk active substance under EU Regulation 1107/2009. This approval marks a significant milestone for integrated pest management (IPM) and underscores the growing role of biological solutions in combating agricultural challenges.
Targeted, eco-friendly pest control
PhopGV, a highly specialized baculovirus, offers a game-changing solution for controlling Tuta absoluta, a devastating pest responsible for severe losses in tomato crops worldwide. Unlike broad-spectrum chemical pesticides, PhopGV operates with precision, infecting only the target pest while leaving beneficial insects, pollinators, and the surrounding ecosystem unharmed. Its residue-free profile ensures compliance with stringent food safety standards, addressing consumer demands for cleaner, healthier produce.
A win for growers and sustainability
For farmers, this approval translates to a powerful new tool in their IPM arsenal. Tuta absoluta, also known as the tomato leafminer, has developed resistance to many conventional pesticides, making it a persistent threat to global tomato production. PhopGV’s targeted action not only enhances crop protection but also reduces reliance on synthetic chemicals, aligning with the EU’s Farm to Fork Strategy and its goal to slash pesticide use by 50% by 2030.
Andermatt leads biological innovation
The approval of PhopGV highlights the critical work of companies like Andermatt Group AG, which champions biological alternatives to conventional agrochemicals. “This decision is a testament to the potential of microbial solutions in sustainable agriculture,” said an Andermatt spokesperson. “PhopGV empowers growers to protect yields without compromising environmental or human health.”
A call for regulatory agility
While celebrating this milestone, the approval process also sheds light on a pressing issue: the need for faster, more efficient regulatory pathways for biological control agents. Despite their low-risk profiles, bio-based solutions often face prolonged evaluation timelines compared to synthetic chemicals. Streamlining approvals is essential to accelerate the adoption of sustainable technologies and meet urgent global food security and climate goals.
Looking ahead
The EU’s endorsement of PhopGV sets a precedent for future innovations in biological pest control. As agriculture pivots toward regenerative practices, such breakthroughs underscore the importance of collaboration between policymakers, researchers, and industry leaders to scale eco-friendly solutions.
For more details on PhopGV’s approval and its implications for sustainable farming, visit: https://lnkd.in/d85AV5CJ.
About Andermatt Group AG: A global leader in biological crop protection, Andermatt pioneers microbial and natural solutions to address agricultural challenges while promoting biodiversity and soil health
