Technology is a key enabler of more efficient agricultural production as growers attempt to meet the cost-effective need for increased food, fiber, and bioenergy, while managing limited inputs, conserving valuable natural resources, and protecting environmental quality. Each new pest management technology (weed, insect, disease) developed brings a number of benefits and risks—environmental, health, resistance—that must be considered and managed through effective stewardship practices to ensure that benefits are fully realized while risks are minimized.
This CAST Commentary
- Identifies and explores the stewardship challenges of new pest management technologies for both growers and technology developers, and
- Provides recommendations to stakeholders, researchers, and growers to improve the stewardship of pest management technologies in agriculture.