In the agribusiness sector, pests present a significant challenge. Plantation companies often resort to using pesticides to manage these pests. However, in alignment with sustainability principles and the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), businesses must ensure that their operations do not harm the environment. To address pest threats, Astra Agro Lestari employs environmentally friendly methods, opting for biological pest control techniques instead of chemical solutions.

Biological control involves using predators to suppress pest populations, offering an environmentally friendly alternative that reduces the reliance on pesticides. Astra Agro employs several methods of biological pest control, including the use of Sycanus sp., Tyto alba, and the Turnera Subulata flower.

Sycanus sp.: The Caterpillar Predator

Sycanus sp. is a predator that effectively targets caterpillars, preying on nearly all lepidopteran larvae, including butterflies, which play a role in pollinating oil palm plants. This predator lays its eggs on oil palm leaves, allowing it to reside in the oil palm canopy and actively hunt caterpillars (Abdul et al., 2016). The cultivation of Sycanus predators has been implemented since 2018, contributing to maintaining ecological balance without harming the environment.

Tyto alba: The Owl That Chase After Pests

Astra Agro also innovatively uses Tyto alba, commonly known as the barn owl, to control rat populations in oil palm plantations. This method aims to provide an effective alternative for pest control. To enhance the effectiveness of this strategy, the company places one pair of owls and a nesting site for them across every 20 hectares. Similar to Sycanus sp., these owls help manage pests that threaten oil palm plants.

Turnera Subulata: A Natural Pest Control Plant

In addition to using predators, Astra Agro employs the Turnera Subulata flower, also known as the nine o’clock flower. This flower is an ornamental and medicinal plant and plays a role in pest management. By planting Turnera Subulata on their plantation concessions, the company attracts adult fireworms that rely on the flower’s nectar for food. These adult caterpillars are less likely to attack the oil palm plants with sufficient food sources.

Besides biological control, Astra Agro Lestari has conducted various research initiatives to address pest invasions and enhance pollination success. They have implemented an Early Warning System (EWS) that utilizes digital mapping technology for monitoring plant pest organisms (OPT). This system provides quick and accurate data regarding pest populations, diseases, and the presence of natural enemies.