Qatar University researchers develop alternative to harmful chemical pesticides

Doha: Chemical pesticides have long been used as pest control agents for human and plant protection. But growing concern over the effects of these harmful substances, particularly their toxicity and unspecific mode of action, pushed scientists to explore much safer alternatives. 

Qatar University (QU) researchers, in collaboration with WHO Collaborating Center at the University of Montpellier, France, developed a wide range of biopesticides produced naturally by nonpathogenic, friendly bacteria isolated from Qatar soil.  Biopesticides are natural molecules acting efficiently and specifically on the targeted pathogens. They are considered a safe alternative to chemical pesticides, as they are harmless to humans, the environment, and food chains.