New Study Explores Future Risks from Emerging Plant Pests in Europe
Data de publicação: 24 Julho 2026 | Língua do relatório: EN
New and emerging plant pests pose an increasing threat to Europe’s food security, agricultural productivity, and forest ecosystems. Their spread can lead to significant crop losses, reduced farm and forestry income, trade disruptions, and rising costs for pest control. Beyond their economic impact, these pests can also cause serious environmental damage, including biodiversity loss, landscape alteration, and greater reliance on pesticides.
A new foresight study examines the factors driving the introduction and spread of plant pests, including global trade, tourism, climate change, and evolving agricultural systems. It assesses current and future pest risks while evaluating scientific and technological solutions for their prevention, early detection, and effective management. The study also reviews existing EU mechanisms designed to address these challenges.
To better understand potential future developments, the researchers developed four scenarios extending to 2050, exploring how key uncertainties may influence pest pressures and society’s ability to respond. Drawing on these insights, the study identifies a range of policy options to strengthen prevention, preparedness, and response capacities.
The findings provide valuable guidance for future EU policymaking and contribute to building more resilient agricultural and environmental systems capable of addressing the growing challenges posed by emerging plant pests.
