Summary for policymakers of the scientific review of the impact of climate change on plant pests: A global challenge to prevent and mitigate plant pest risks in agriculture, forestry and ecosystems

Abstract

<p>Climate change represents an unprecedented challenge to the world's biosphere and to the global community. It also represents a unique challenge for plant health. Human activities and increased market globalization, coupled with rising temperatures, has led to a situation that is favourable to pest movement and establishment. This summary for policy makers drawn from the FAO scientific review on the impact of climate change on plant pests, and by extension, on plant health provides concrete recommendations for decision makers on how to address the impact of climate change on plant health. The evidence assessed strongly indicates that climate change has already expanded some pests' host range and geographical distribution, and may further increase the risk of pest introduction to new areas. Increased international cooperation and development of harmonized plant protection strategies are crucial to help countries successfully adapt their pest risk management measures to climate change.</p>