Despite growing biopesticide production, many farmers struggle with adoption due to limited knowledge of handling, application and storage. Key barriers include practical questions on sourcing, dosage and crop suitability. Without clear guidance, knowledge gaps reinforce dependence on conventional pesticides and long-standing practices.

This case study highlights farmer training under the Financing Agrochemical Reduction and Management (FARM) project in India, offering lessons for reducing reliance on chemicals and plastics. FARM addresses these gaps by promoting safe biopesticide use across eight crops in 10 states. Training combines principles – soil health, integrated pest management and risk reduction – with hands-on instruction on dosage, application, safety, storage and disposal.

As part of the UNEP-led, GEF-funded programme, the initiative advances sustainable agriculture that safeguards ecosystems, human health and food security.