Penguatan Tata Kelola dan Kelembagaan Industri Biopestisida: Strategi Inovatif Menuju Pertanian Berkelanjutan di Kabupaten Gorontalo

Abstract

The biopesticide industry plays a crucial role in supporting the sustainability of the agricultural sector as an eco-friendly alternative to chemical pesticides. Biopesticides offer solutions to mitigate the negative impacts on ecosystems and human health. However, the development of this industry faces significant challenges, particularly in governance and institutional frameworks, often hindered by limited institutional capacity and inadequate cross-sectoral coordination. To support the development of this sector, a community service activity was conducted to enhance the capacity of small and medium enterprises (SMEs) and strengthen synergies among the government, research institutions, biopesticide producers, and farmers. This activity occurred in December 2024, in collaboration with the Department of Industry and Trade of Gorontalo Regency. The methods employed included lectures and interactive discussions with participants, consisting of managers and operators of Technical Implementation Units (UPT) under the Department of Industry and Trade of Gorontalo Regency and representatives from SME centers in Gorontalo Regency. The activity received positive feedback from participants, as evidenced by their high enthusiasm during the discussions. Participants gained in-depth insights into the benefits of biopesticides for supporting sustainable agriculture and the importance of robust governance and institutional frameworks through effective regulation and collaboration with government and private sectors. The activity results indicated increased awareness among participants regarding the urgency of biopesticide use in modern agricultural practices and the potential for collaboration to advance the industry. This program is expected to catalyze the development of a more competitive and sustainable biopesticide industry at both local and national levels.