The Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) convened the 18th Session of the Commission on Phytosanitary Measures (CPM) to address the urgent need for coordinated action against plant pests and diseases threatening global agriculture and ecosystems. In his opening address, FAO Director-General QU Dongyu emphasized the severe consequences of unchecked outbreaks on ecosystems, trade, and food security.
Climate Change Impact on Plant Pests
The CPM meeting highlighted the profound impact of climate change on the distribution and intensity of plant pests and diseases worldwide. Changing weather patterns and rising temperatures exacerbate threats like Fusarium Tropical Race 4 (TR4), a fungus devastating banana crops. TR4's impact extends to over 400 million farmers and rural households, underlining the necessity for international cooperation in early detection and rapid response efforts.
The IPPC, in partnership with FAO, is spearheading global initiatives to combat TR4 and other plant health challenges. These efforts include raising awareness, conducting simulation exercises, and developing prevention and management guides. The FAO's launch of the "Global Roadmap for Achieving Sustainable Development Goal 2 (SDG2)" underscores the importance of integrated pest management in achieving food security sustainably.
The CPM's agenda this week includes positioning the IPPC within the One Health approach and aligning efforts across plant, animal, and human health sectors. Participating countries are expected to adopt amendments to phytosanitary standards, including criteria for pest-free areas and cold treatments for pests like the false codling moth.
Strengthening Global Phytosanitary Systems
The CPM is set to endorse the Africa Phytosanitary Program, providing crucial support to national governments and stakeholders in managing plant pests effectively. Furthermore, the IPPC's ePhyto Solution has streamlined safe trade through digital phytosanitary certification, with over 5 million certificates exchanged by 88 active user countries.
The CPM's deliberations and initiatives underscore the critical need for international cooperation in protecting global agriculture and food security.
