International Day of Plant Health -12 May

Tags: Important Days

International Day of Plant Health is observed every year on 12 May.

An overview of the news

• The day was announced by the United Nations General Assembly in December 2019 to raise awareness about the importance of protecting plant health for the well-being of people, the environment and the economy.

• Plant health is important for ensuring food security, protecting biodiversity, and preventing the spread of pests and diseases that harm plants, animals, and humans.

• The Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) of the United Nations is leading global efforts to promote plant health and prevent the spread of pests and diseases.

• FAO works with governments, farmers, researchers and other stakeholders to develop and implement strategies to manage plant pests and diseases and to ensure the health and productivity of crops and forests.

• The theme for International Day of Plant Health 2023 is "Plant Health for All: Protecting Plants, Protecting Life."

Purpose of the day

• The day aims to raise awareness of the importance of protecting plants from pests and diseases and to encourage action at all levels to improve plant health.

• It also recognizes the work of plant health professionals, scientists and farmers in protecting the health of plants and ensuring a sustainable future for all.

Background of the day

• The day was announced by the United Nations General Assembly in December 2019.

• The first International Day of Plant Health was observed in 2020.