S14 - Session O1 - Keynote: Multifaceted benefits of biological control of horticultural insect pests

Authors: George Heimpel *

Biological control is an important component of the integrated pest management of numerous horticultural insect pests. Biological control can offer effective pest control while safeguarding the environment and human health from potentially damaging chemical insecticides. The replacement of chemical insecticides with biological control solutions can also lead to significant reductions in greenhouse gas emissions because of the energy intensive nature of insecticide manufacture and application. Here I will provide case studies of the savings in greenhouse gas emissions that have been provided by the replacement of chemical by biological control in selected horticultural crops. Case studies will include biological control of citrus pests worldwide and the growth of commercially produced biological control agents in greenhouse culture in Europe.