Managing stakeholder concerns associated with releases of imported stock in insect control programmes

A commitment to reducing pesticide use and the development of novel technologies are driving a renewed interest in insect-mediated pest and vector control programmes. These, along with conservation and pollination applications, lead to an increased transport volume of live insect stock. At release sites, concerns surrounding imported insects can be reduced by using local genotypes that have been mass-produced elsewhere. Remaining plausible concerns are likely to be centred on human (vector behaviour or capacity) and ecological (interacting species) factors and should be anticipated in the design of communication materials. Well designed, locally relevant communication and engagement material is an important part of programme success.

Stakeholder engagement is thus critical to reducing risks of perceived and plausible concerns affecting programme outcomes in an increasingly electronically connected world.  Experience at release sites can help inform design of accessible information useful to all stages of the transportation pathway. For trans-nationally transported insects, providing such information to specific stakeholders (e.g. courier companies and border authorities) will reduce the likelihood of delays which can, in turn, affect the quality and mortality of the transported insects.