1

Why the project matters

Agriculture in the Mediterranean region is increasingly affected by inefficient and harmful pest control practices that decrease crop production, reduce food quality, and pose risks to health and ecosystems. The widespread use of chemical pesticides contributes to biodiversity loss, weaker pest control effectiveness, and environmental contamination. Tomato cultivation, a key crop in the region, is particularly impacted. These challenges are intensified by climate change and water scarcity, threatening sustainable agriculture and food security across Mediterranean countries.

2

What it aims to achieve

• To develop and scale up nano biopesticides made from essential oils as a safer, more sustainable alternative to chemical pesticides in Mediterranean agriculture, while enhancing the regional innovation ecosystem for sustainable technologies.
• To launch and expand a startup that will produce biopesticides on a larger scale, strengthening market readiness and creating robust business models to support their wider adoption across the Mediterranean region.

 

3

Expected change

• Improved agricultural practices through the development and commercialization of a new generation of essential oil-based nano biopesticides with higher efficacy, targeted delivery, and reduced environmental impact.
• Strengthened transnational collaboration and knowledge exchange through a research network that fosters innovation, supports technology transfer, and enables sustainable biopesticide production in Mediterranean communities in water-scarce areas.

4

What the project delivers

• 40 essential oils screened and profiled, 16 combinations tested for synergy, 15 assessed for safety, and 20 extracted using clean pilot-scale systems.
• Training and capacity-building for 20 researchers and staff.
• 100 nano-biopesticide formulas created using natural materials like clay, chitosan, and yeast, designed to make pest control safer and more effective.
• 35 optimized formulations refined for high performance, long shelf life, and minimal impact on non-target species.
• 15 final nano formulations assessed for regulatory approval.
• 2 documentation packages prepared for regulatory and Intellectual Property protection; Includes safety files, environmental impact, and patent filings.
• 20 business plans developed to support startup growth, including guidance on pricing, marketing, production, and sustainability
• 2 startups established with full labs and production infrastructure to produce and commercialize the nano-biopesticides.

 

5

Who benefits

• 400 farmers accessing EO-nano-biopesticides to reduce pesticide use, improve yields, and transition to organic farming.
• 80 aromatic plant farmers benefiting from increased demand and training in improved cultivation techniques.
• 40 agricultural advisors trained to support farmers with sustainable pest management solutions.
• 250,000+ local community members benefiting from safer food, a healthier environment, and job creation.
• 40+ agricultural SMEs and startups gaining access to innovative pest control technologies and commercialization support.