The use of biological control for sustainable food production in Latin America in the Plantwise program

The attack of pests and diseases to key crops represents a challenge for food security and the sustainable agricultural production in Latin America and the Caribbean. Biological Control is considered as an important management strategy in the context of Integrated Pest Management. The effectiveness of biological control will depend on farmer´s good understanding of the mode of action and technology of application of the bioproducts and therefore, is important to have a well-trained extension system capable to provide the information, capacity building and technical advice to farmers. Plantwise is a global programme coordinated by CABI. Since its launch in 2011, CABI's Plantwise programme has been introduced to 34 countries in Africa, Asia and the Americas. The aim was to increase food security and improve rural livelihoods by reducing crop losses. This was achieved by establishing sustainable networks of local plant clinics, run by trained plant doctors, where farmers receive practical plant health advice. Working in close partnership with over 170 in-country partners, Plantwise strengthened national plant health systems from within, enabling countries to provide farmers with the knowledge they need to produce in a more sustainable way. In this talk case studies will be presented, highlighting the importance of Biological Control to increase the sustainable production in Latin America and the Caribbean.