The overall goal of this research line is to contribute to soil and crop protection through the use of low-cost biotechnologies and the promotion of sustainable development of agricultural systems by means of ecological alternatives. To achieve the general objective the following different strategies are been proposed 1. Development of new bioremediation strategies by studying the molecular basis of the degradation of pollutants and by designing new processes in vermicomposting, rhizoremediation and soil organic amendments to recycle, and recover organic and inorganic wastes and decontaminate soils. 2. Study of the molecular, genetic and physiological aspects relevant for the lifestyle of microorganisms of significance in plant protection. 3. Development of methods for evaluation, maintenance and rational exploitation of microbial biodiversity. 4. Development of an integrated management of pest in agroecosystems.