INTEGRATED PEST MANAGEMENT (IPM): SUSTAINABLE STRATEGIES FOR CROP PROTECTION AND ENVIRONMENTAL CONSERVATION

Crop pests continue to pose significant threats to global agricultural production, causing substantial yield losses and economic damage. Conventional pest management has largely relied on synthetic pesticides, which have contributed to environmental pollution, pesticide resistance, biodiversity loss, and human health concerns. Integrated Pest Management (IPM) has emerged as a sustainable approach that combines biological, cultural, mechanical, and chemical control methods to manage pest populations while minimizing environmental impacts. This review explores the principles, components, benefits, challenges, and future prospects of IPM. The review highlights how IPM contributes to sustainable agriculture, environmental conservation, food security, and climate-resilient farming systems.