10 common wheat pests and diseases
Wheat is a cereal grain, a staple food in many areas of the globe. It is primarily used to produce flour, which can be used to create other foodstuffs, including bread and pasta. Additionally, wheat and its by products are used to feed livestock. China is the world’s largest wheat producer, producing hundreds of millions…
Scaling sustainable food production using integrated pest management
With the global population expected to reach 9.7 billion by 2050, the challenge of feeding more people while protecting our planet has never been more urgent. Traditional farming methods often rely heavily on chemical pesticides, contributing to ecosystem damage and human health concerns. Integrated pest management (IPM) is an approach that combines biological, cultural, and…
Understanding invasive species in agriculture: introduction, impact, and management
Invasive species are a growing threat to sustainable agriculture worldwide. When they are introduced into a region, they can spread rapidly, damage crops, disrupt ecosystems, affect native biodiversity, and result in significant economic losses. Understanding how invasive species are introduced to new areas is crucial in preventing their spread and protecting global food systems.
The role of soil health in sustainable agriculture
Previously, we have discussed the importance of soil health for agriculture, highlighting its threats and outlining protection strategies. In this blog, we dig deeper into the role of soil health in sustainable agriculture and explore its long-term benefits. With almost half the world’s surface used for agriculture, it is vital that the land on which…
How does crop rotation help keep pest populations in control?
Crop rotation is a simple, effective way to manage pests, improve soil health, and boost yields. Suitable for all growers, crop rotation supports sustainable agriculture and reduces the need for chemical inputs. By targeting pest lifecycles and reducing pest pressure over time, crop rotation helps create more resilient growing systems. Read below to learn more.
Using biocontrol-based integrated pest management to reduce pollinator loss
Pollinators, such as bees, bumblebees, butterflies, and some flies, play a crucial role in agricultural ecosystems by facilitating the reproduction of about 80% of our crops. Pollinators assure at least 30% of human’s food production. However, their populations have been heavily declining increasingly compromising food safety. Integrated pest management (IPM) is a more sustainable and…
5 reasons to increase gender-equal education in agriculture
In agriculture, a domain where women play a pivotal yet often underrepresented role, promoting gender-equal education is not just a matter of equity but also a catalyst for community advancement. International Women’s Day, recently celebrated, serves as a poignant reminder of the strides made and the challenges that remain in achieving gender equality across various…