Yesterday, policymakers, researchers, farmers’ representatives and biocontrol innovators gathered at the European Parliament to discuss the organic approach to biocontrol. A key highlight was the presentation of SCALE-it, showcasing research on new biocontrol solutions and on-farm demonstrations. Hosted by MEP Madjouline Sbai and co-organised by IFOAM Organics Europe, IBMA, and FiBL, the event comes as the European Commission prepares new measures to improve access to biocontrol under its Vision for Agriculture and Food.
SCALE-it was represented by Lucius Tamm, who gave a presentation on the role of biocontrol from research to market. Lucius highlighted work underway to develop new alternatives to contentious inputs such as copper, and stressed the essential role of on-farm demonstration activities, which help farmers test innovations under real conditions. His intervention showcased SCALE-it as a key initiative bridging scientific development and practical application in sustainable agriculture.
Organic farmers have long been pioneers in the use of biocontrol, integrating these tools into holistic plant-health strategies and applying them only when necessary. However, current EU risk-assessment and approval procedures remain primarily designed for synthetic chemical pesticides. This mismatch slows the evaluation of biocontrol products, restricts market access, and limits the availability of effective, low-risk solutions.
The event explored how current challenges in the regulatory system can be overcome and which policy adjustments are required to create a fair, efficient, and innovation-friendly environment for biocontrol. Key needs identified include establishing a clear EU-wide definition of biocontrol that distinguishes it from conventional pesticides, as well as accelerating approval and authorization procedures – such as enabling provisional authorizations and waiving renewal processes unless scientifically justified. Improvements to national procedures and stronger mutual recognition between Member States were also highlighted, alongside the need to ensure adequate resources and expertise within EFSA and national authorities. Finally, better alignment with the Organic Regulation is essential to guarantee that biocontrol products are authorized and accessible for use in organic production.
The programme also included a presentation of the Commission’s forthcoming regulatory proposal by DG SANTE Policy Officer Domenico Deserio, political inputs from IFOAM Organics Europe and IBMA, and concrete testimonies from fruit and potato producers applying biocontrol in the field. Research perspectives were further enriched by contributions from the SCALE-it project and IBMA member AMOEBA, who shared insights into ongoing innovation and the regulatory hurdles faced by industry.
Across all interventions, speakers agreed that biocontrol is a central tool for organic farming, and its use is expanding across all agricultural systems.
The discussions showed broad support for targeted amendments to Regulation (EC) 1107/2009 on plant protection products. The event concluded with a strong call for streamlined, science-based regulatory pathways dedicated to biocontrol, enabling faster and broader adoption. It reaffirmed a shared commitment to making biocontrol a true cornerstone of sustainable agriculture in Europe.
About SCALE-it project
SCALE-it runs for 48 months and is funded under the European Union’s Horizon Europe programme (2021-2027), with co-funding from the Swiss State Secretariat for Education, Research and Innovation (SERI). The project is coordinated by FiBL Europe, with scientific leadership from FiBL Switzerland.
