Bt Research 2024, Vol.15, No.3, 131-140 http://microbescipublisher.com/index.php/bt 131 Review Article Open Access Regulatory Approval and Market Adoption of Bt-based Biopesticides Jiawei Li Modern Agricultural Research Center of Cuixi Academy of Biotechology, Zhuji, 311800, Zhejiang, China Corresponding email: hongwei.liu@cuixi.org Bt Research, 2024, Vol.15, No.3 doi: 10.5376/Bt.2024.15.0013 Received: 20 Apr., 2024 Accepted: 11 May., 2024 Published: 29 May., 2024 Copyright © 2024 Li, This is an open access article published under the terms of the Creative Commons Attribution License, which permits unrestricted use, distribution, and reproduction in any medium, provided the original work is properly cited. Preferred citation for this article: Li J.W., 2024, Regulatory approval and market adoption of Bt-based biopesticides, Bt Research, 15(3): 131-140 (doi: 10.5376/Bt.2024.15.0013) Abstract Bt biopesticides are known for their insecticidal properties and have been widely used in agriculture to reduce reliance on chemical pesticides and promote sustainable farming practices. Bt-based biopesticides are a promising alternative to chemical pesticides and have shown significant success in controlling pests and diseases, increasing crop yields, reducing environmental impact, and providing environmental and economic benefits. However, their market adoption is influenced by regulatory frameworks, potential drug resistance development, and environmental factors. The regulatory approval process for these biopesticides varies by region and often involves rigorous safety and effectiveness assessments. Studies have shown that Bt crops can affect soil enzyme activity and microbial ecology, requiring careful biosafety evaluation. Ongoing research and development, as well as rigorous regulation, are essential to maximize the benefits of Bt biopesticides and mitigate the risks associated with them. The purpose of this study was to investigate the regulatory approval process and market adoption of biopesticides based onBacillus thuringiensis (Bt). Keywords Bacillus thuringiensis; Biopesticides; Regulatory approval; Market adoption; Pest resistance 1 Introduction Bacillus thuringiensis (Bt) is a Gram-positive, soil-dwelling bacterium that has been extensively utilized in agriculture due to its insecticidal properties (Bravo et al., 2011). The primary mode of action of Bt involves the production of crystalline inclusions containing proteins known as δ-endotoxins or Cry proteins during sporulation (Sanahuja et al., 2011). These proteins exhibit specific insecticidal activities against various insect pests, particularly lepidopteran and coleopteran larvae, making Bt the most widely used biopesticide globally (Kumar et al., 2008; Sanchis and Bourguet, 2011). Bt-based biopesticides can be applied in various forms, including sprays and transgenic crops expressing Bt cry genes, which have been developed to enhance crop protection and reduce reliance on chemical insecticides (Sanchis and Bourguet, 2011; Wafa et al., 2020). The adoption of Bt-based biopesticides has significant implications for sustainable agriculture and environmental safety. Regulatory approval is crucial to ensure that these biopesticides are safe for human health and the environment. The rigorous evaluation process includes assessing the potential ecological risks, such as the impact on non-target organisms and the development of insect resistance (Kumar et al., 2008; Li et al., 2022). Market adoption of Bt-based biopesticides is influenced by public perception, regulatory frameworks, and the demonstrated efficacy of these products in pest management. Despite some biosafety concerns and ethical issues, the area under Bt transgenic crops is rapidly increasing, with several countries adopting these technologies to enhance agricultural productivity and reduce the environmental footprint of pest control (Kumar et al., 2008; Wafa et al., 2020). This study reviews the historical development and current status of Bt-based biopesticides in various regions; evaluates the regulatory frameworks governing the approval of Bt-based biopesticides and their implications for market adoption; assesses the environmental and economic impacts of Bt-based biopesticides, including their role in integrated pest management and resistance management strategies and identify the challenges and opportunities associated with the broader adoption of Bt-based biopesticides in sustainable agriculture. By addressing these objectives, the study seeks to provide a comprehensive understanding of the factors influencing the regulatory approval and market adoption of Bt-based biopesticides, thereby contributing to the development of more effective and sustainable pest management practices.
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