BenPol technology for management of cotton bollworm and western flower thrips (2025-2026)
Abstract
This project aims to develop and validate BenPol technology for efficient dsRNA delivery and sustainable release in agricultural pest control. In collaboration with Croda in polymer development and production, the project will optimise the polymers and scale up manufacturing of optimised BenPol, advancing the technology from TRL 4 to TRL 7 and bringing it closer to market readiness. The patented BenPol platform offers a non-GM, innovative RNAi solution that targets pests, addressing the limitations of traditional chemical controls. This project is expected to overcome pesticide resistance, deliver a transformative, eco-friendly solution, enhance crop protection, and ensure environmental sustainability and regulatory acceptance.