Hundreds of thousands of insects reintroduced to protect the cellar

Over the past 26 years, James Sweetapple has introduced over 700,000 insects to his cellar to repair the environment and reduce chemical use.

Key points: people global insect killer has declined 41 percent over the past 40 years, winery owner James Sweetapple says native bug plants have encouraged beneficial insects Dr. Lizzy Lowe says overuse of chemicals in agriculture has contributed to the overall decline

This comes as Australia faces an "insect apocalypse" with populations declining by up to 2.5% per year.

By promoting predatory insects, such as ladybugs and lacewings, Mr Sweetapple said he had eliminated his need for chemicals at his vineyard near Orange, in west central New South Wales.

"It's all about balance. If you use a pesticide it will kill all the good bugs and the bad bugs", did he declare.

"Bad bugs will come back first, so if you mess with the ecosystem, you'll end up with a disaster."

By doing so, Mr Sweetapple said it saved him "time and money".

"You don't need to buy a keg, can or bottle of anything. You don't need to mix it in your spray tank, put on your protective gear and drive your tractor through the rows.

Orange vineyard owner James Sweetapple bought half a million bugs for his property.(ABC Rural: Hamish Cole)

Protecting wine and bugs

Plants native insects such as wattles es and rosemary are essential habitat for supporting beneficial insects.

By planting more than 2,000 natives, Sweetapple said he protected the vineyard from pests such as light brown apple moth.

"We don't get insects and caterpillars in grapes or wine. Ringworm is particularly bad because it hides inside the bunch and kills the berries," he said.

"By naturally eliminating light brown apple moths in the vineyard, you have a much easier and happier harvest."

Global insect decline

A study by the University of Sydney found that global insect populations have declined by an average of 41% over the past 40 years.