As the only naturally derived biocide formally accepted by the European Union, neem’s relevance in the agricultural space is increasing. With neem oil containing over two hundred biologically active compounds, alongside the growing interest in organic products worldwide, neem’s reputation as a valuable resource can only intensify.
In his opening address at this year’s Neem Conference in Rome, Professor Nicoletti shared his passion for transferring the latest discoveries in neem research more widely into the commercial sector. This would include products that protect crops, nourish soils and ultimately assist in strengthening global food security.
Superior Growth in Agriculture Will Come From Organics
The range of scientific evidence supporting neem as an organic alternative to synthetic fertilizers and pesticides was a major theme of this year’s conference. Synthetics pesticides and fertilizers are responsible for increasing pollution, slowing yields and causing public health risks. Their organic counterparts, such as neem, are cheaper, more effective and entirely sustainable with no risks to the public or the environment.
The Strength of Neem as an Organic Pesticide
As an organic pesticide, neem sterilizes mosquitoes in their larvicidal stage preventing the spread of a variety of the world’s most dangerous diseases such as dengue, malaria and chikungunya, which are prevalent in SubSaharan Africa and parts of Latin America.
Organic pesticides are also:
- Resistance Free – Acting on the insect’s hormonal system, not on the digestive or nervous systems, neem prevents the development of resistance in future generations.
- Lower Cost – Neem based pesticides are significantly cheaper than their synthetic counterparts.
- Environmentally Friendly – Neem products are entirely biodegradable and the US National Pesticide Information Center has shown minimal levels of toxicity to birds, mammals and plants.
Neem’s Inherent Qualities as an Organic Fertilizer
As a biofertilizer, neem cake (a by-product of the neem extraction process) substantially improves the amounts of nutrients in the soil and doubles the growth rates of peach plants over a nine-week period.
Organic fertilizers can also:
- Improve Soil Health – Helping the soil retain moisture and increases workability, neem allows for more airflow through the soil which allows the plants’ roots to breathe.
- Induce Hydraulic Conductivity – Neem improves water flow in soils and provides a food source for soil micro-organisms, which contribute to macro-pore formation.
- Protect the Environment – Neem is healthier for the eco system because it must first break down before releasing its nutrients, ensuring that no runoff occurs.
Closing the conference, Professor Nicoletti unveiled the Neem Felix Project which will be featured at Expo 2015 in Rome. This year’s five month event will showcase innovative technology and scientific breakthroughs that guarantee healthy, environmentally safe and globally sufficient solutions to strengthening food security.