Newly launched intl alliance to safeguard plant biosafety, food security

An international alliance of science and technology innovation in plant protection was recently launched in Guangzhou, Guangdong province, aiming to foster global cooperation in safeguarding plant health and food security.

BRI International Alliance of Science and Technology Innovation in Plant Protection was jointly unveiled by the Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences' Institute of Plant Protection and the Center for Agriculture and Bioscience International, a non-profit organization focused on addressing agricultural and environmental challenges.

The alliance was one of the results of the 2nd International Symposium on Plant Biosafety co-hosted by CAAS and CABI. The event convened more than 250 experts and scholars from 18 countries and over 40 domestic institutions, committed to exploring global collaborations for plant biosafety.

Sun Tan, vice-president of the academy, said plant biosafety has become a strategic issue affecting global food security and sustainable agricultural development. "Plant pests and diseases are the major threats to biosafety, causing 20 to 40 percent annual yield losses and more than $220 billion in global economic damage," Sun said.

The academy will continue to enhance international collaboration in biosafety research, improve cooperation mechanisms and promote joint innovation platforms, he said.

Daniel Elger, chief executive officer of CABI, said the partnership between China and CABI has made fruitful results over the past 30 years. As long-term strategic partners, the two sides will continue to deepen collaboration to advance the global sharing and application of plant biosafety management technologies, achieving mutual benefit and win-win outcomes, he said.

During the event, participants engaged in discussions on topics such as the patterns of pest and disease outbreaks, integrated pest management, and innovative approaches to biosafety governance, according to the organizers.