Pesticide Reduction Strategies for Sustainable Fruit Production

This document outlines 11 science-based strategies from the EUFRUIT project to reduce pesticide use in sustainable fruit production. It covers biodiversity enhancement, biological control with microbes and insects, cultural practices, decision support tools, drone-based detection, natural substances, and physical barriers. The project, funded by Horizon 2020 (grant No. 696337), involved an international expert group from 2016–2019 and developed practical, integrated solutions for growers. Key outcomes include improved pest monitoring, reduced chemical reliance, and field-tested alternatives such as *Bacillus subtilis*, *Amblyseius andersoni*, and neem oil. The approach combines ecological principles with technological innovation for effective, sustainable fruit farming.