Canadian innovations in microbial biopesticides

For many years, researchers have been sceptical as to whether microbial biological control agents, and in particular biopesticides, would be developed for use in areas other than greenhouses and forestry. This perception is slowly changing as the increased development and use of biopesticides in Canada is moving from being a novelty to a reality. This paper examines the role of biopesticides in Canada and the nine stages required to take a microbial biopesticide from discovery through product development, striving for commercialization and adoption by the end user. It highlights examples of Canadian biopesticide innovations that have moved through the innovation chain, illustrating the challenges and rewards along the way.