Mineral oil/Spinosad
The problem
Mineral oil (paraffin) and spinosad are contentious plant protection products in organic farming that raise environmental concerns. The EU strategy aims for a significant reduction in chemical pesticides. Agronomic practices and biocontrol, e.g., use of parasitic insects, can offer an alternative to mineral oils. There is a need for more selective and effective solutions against specific insects like scale insects and mealybugs, during major outbreaks, or against virus vectors.
What SCALE-it does
Building on the knowledge from RELACS and some industrial applications, SCALE-it will test different alternatives to mineral oil/Spinosad on a variety of plant species, such as citrus, potato, and different vegetables. Through a set of demonstration trials, the tested solutions will be upscaled to TRL 7-9. Proven strategies (systems approach) from previous projects are refined and new ones (for crops not previously addressed or new alternative products) will be developed.
Expected results
Functional alternatives are being advanced from TRL 4-6 to TRL 7-9. Prototypes of two devices will reach TRL7. A vibrational device for greenhouses/citrus orchards will be fully operative (TRL9). Overall, a 50% reduction in the consumption of mineral oil and spinosad per hectare is targeted in selected cultures
Latest news:
New SCALE-it scientific publication explores how a sustainable fungicide acts against major plant pathogens
Voices of SCALE-it: Advancing Biocontrol for Plant Health
Two EU Projects join forces to redefine organic farming
SCALE-it presented at the “Biocontrol in organic: managing plant health with complementary practices” event at the EU Parliament
SCALE-it holds its first Annual General Meeting in Granada
