The extensive reliance on synthetic pesticides has substantially enhanced agricultural productivity but has also generated persistent challenges related to environmental degradation, pesticide resistance, food safety, and human health. Biopesticides derived from microorganisms, plants, and biologically active natural compounds have emerged as sustainable alternatives that address these concerns while supporting ecologically sound pest management. This review critically evaluates the diversity of biopesticides, their formulation strategies, utilization prospects, and future directions, with emphasis on formulation science as a central determinant of efficacy, stability, and field performance. The article synthesizes recent advances in biopesticide formulations, including suspension systems, capsule suspensions, granular matrices, oil dispersions, and nano-enabled delivery platforms, highlighting their roles in enhancing persistence, controlled release, and target specificity. Particular attention is given to micro- and nanoencapsulation approaches that mitigate environmental sensitivity, extend shelf life, and facilitate integration into Integrated Pest Management programs. Regulatory challenges governing biopesticide commercialization are examined, underscoring the need for risk-proportionate and harmonized approval frameworks to accelerate innovation and market adoption. Emerging technologies, including synthetic biology, RNA interference, computational modeling, and microbiome-based strategies, are discussed as transformative tools that are reshaping biopesticide discovery and application. Overall, this review provides a consolidated perspective on the scientific and technological pathways required to advance biopesticides as reliable, scalable, and environmentally compatible components of sustainable crop protection systems.
Senthil‐Nathan et al. (Mon,) studied this question.