Biobest launches IPM e-learning platform

Biobest is launching a new e-learning platform meant to strengthen integrated pest management knowledge and understanding.

The Biobest Acadmey features 30 modular courses covering everything from the general concepts and principles of IPM, bumblebee pollination and crop scouting, to advance modules aimed at technical managers and consultants.

“Making Integrated Pest Management (IPM) programs successful requires a much deeper understanding of the crop, the pest or disease, and the solution, compared to conventional crop protection methods,” explains Neal Ward, Biobest academy manager.

“An empowering resource for colleagues, distributors and customers, the Biobest Academy is designed to be used by those new to IPM, right through to experienced practitioners,” he says. 

“Our initial focus was to build a valuable, easily accessible resource for our own technical teams, helping ensure we give the very best advice to growers. We’ve now progressed to the next stage; at GreenTech, we have launched the Biobest Academy to external audiences, empowering distributors, growers and anyone interested in sustainable IPM practices," he says.

“Whether it is learning to identify key pests and diseases in your crop, understanding the complex biology of aphid hyperparasitism, or getting to grips with cutting-edge cannabis growing techniques, the Biobest Academy has a course for you,” says Ward. “The interactive e-learning modules give our students a varied and engaging learning experience, giving them the knowledge they need to make more informed decisions and, ultimately, use IPM to grow a better crop.”  

Users can tailor their learning experience to suit their needs. Courses end with a short exam, and learners gain a certificate on passing. In the U.K., the courses qualify for BASIS professional development points, something Biobest will expand to other countries in the future. All courses are delivered in English, and some are also available in Dutch, with French and Spanish versions due soon. A selection of the basic courses is free. 

“IPM doesn’t stand still,” says Ward. “While new pest and disease threats are constantly appearing in crops, there is also a steady stream of sustainable new Biobest solutions. As such, the Academy will continue to evolve, with new content added and existing content regularly reviewed, keeping users at the forefront of the latest IPM developments.” 

Visit the academy at academy.biobestgroup.com.