The Competence Unit Bioresources of the AIT Center for Health and Bioresources presents the latest developments in the field of microbial biofertilisers and biopesticides at the 19th Annual Biocontrol Industry Meeting (ABIM) in Basel last month, 21-23 October 2024. As scientific coordinator of the EU project RATION, the AIT demonstrated its central role in the further development of sustainable plant protection solutions.
Environmentally friendly alternatives to chemical pesticides are crucial for productive agriculture within planetary boundaries. At the same time, lengthy authorisation procedures make it difficult for farmers to access innovative solutions. Stefan Pfeifer, Business Developer of the AIT Bioresources Unit, explains: “ABIM has established itself as the most important European industry conference for biological crop protection and is now recognised worldwide. As pioneers of microbial plant protection, this was the eleventh time we have been represented with an exhibition stand. ABIM is the perfect place to talk to our existing customers, refresh old contacts and get in touch with newcomers to the market.”
Research and regulatory support
In Basel, the AIT presented microbial-based solutions that reduce the use of chemicals and at the same time secure yields. The Horizon Europe project RATION, led by AIT as scientific coordinator, attracted particular attention. The aim is to optimise approval processes for biopesticides in the EU and thus accelerate access to innovative solutions.
Günter Brader, head of the project, explained in a specialist session how sustainable innovations can reach farmers more quickly through improved regulatory processes.
Making agriculture fit for the future
AIT research is focussed on developing sustainable solutions for agriculture and removing regulatory obstacles. The ABIM once again demonstrated the importance of dialogue between science, industry and politics in order to enable a sustainable transformation of agriculture.
The next ABIM will take place from 20 to 22 October 2025 and will once again provide a central platform for progress in the biocontrol industry.
More about the AIT Bioresources team: https://www.ait.ac.at/themen/bioresources