Boosting agricultural production through 713 million beneficial insects in Saudi Arabia

A strategic step towards promoting sustainable agricultural production

As part of ongoing national efforts to achieve food security and environmental sustainability, the National Center for Plant Pest and Animal Disease Prevention (Wiqa’) has unveiled an ambitious plan to boost agricultural production in Saudi Arabia. The center announced plans to produce more than 713.5 million beneficial insects by 2025, a proactive step aimed at reducing reliance on harmful chemical pesticides and protecting crops using natural and safe methods.

The historical shift from chemicals to biological solutions

Historically, the global and local agricultural sectors have relied heavily on chemical pesticides for pest control, leading over time to the emergence of pesticide-resistant insect strains, as well as negative impacts on soil, groundwater, and human health. With advancements in agricultural science and the launch of Saudi Vision 2030, which prioritizes environmental protection, a radical shift towards "biological control" has begun. This approach aims to restore natural ecological balance, utilizing beneficial microorganisms and insects to control pests, representing a return to nature and a correction of traditional agricultural practices.

Figures and statistics reflect the scale of the achievement

The Waqaa Center explained that these significant outputs were achieved through the Plant Protection Biotechnology Center, which serves as a cornerstone for promoting the use of safe alternatives. Official statistics show that 90,072 packages of beneficial microorganisms have been prepared for distribution to farmers. To ensure the continuity of bio-production chains, the center also noted the production of 100,048 grams of mealybugs, a key food source for raising and feeding these beneficial microorganisms within the production units.

The role of bumblebees in greenhouses

In addition to pest control insects, the plan included the production of 4,572 bumblebee colonies. This type of bee is crucial for enhancing flower pollination in greenhouses. This measure not only increases the quantity of pollen but also significantly improves the quality and productivity of agricultural crops, thus supporting farmers economically.

The overall dimensions and impacts of initiatives to enhance agricultural production

The significance of this event extends beyond mere numbers, encompassing profound impacts on multiple levels. Locally, these environmental solutions directly contribute to ensuring the safety of food products reaching consumers and reduce long-term operating costs for farmers by decreasing chemical purchases. Regionally and internationally, this initiative positions the Kingdom among the leading nations in sustainable agriculture and biodiversity conservation. Furthermore, the expansion of biological control technologies is a cornerstone of the national strategy aimed at protecting vegetation cover and ensuring the sustainability of agricultural resources, aligning with global sustainable development goals and reducing the carbon footprint of the agricultural sector.