Redesigning cropping systems for zero chemical pesticide use based on functional biodiversity and agroecological principles

Biodiversity-based farming and landscape solutions need to be developed for improved crop protection without chemical pesticides. Following agroecological principles and in line with IPM basics, zero chemical pesticide crop protection requires an emphasis on preventative approaches in contrast to the curative approach offered by pesticides. Cropping systems need to be redesigned to harbor an enhanced cultivated and associated biodiversity that via their ecosystem functions and services, replaces pesticides with biological regulations of weeds, pests and diseases. This entails pushing new research frontiers and diversifying cropping systems based on ecological knowledge at the field, farm and landscape scales