Strengthening biosecurity for pest and disease management 

In today's interconnected world there is an increasing threat from the spread of pests and diseases that can devastate agriculture, food security and safety, human health, biodiversity and ecosystem health. To combat this challenge, FAO supports countries to strengthen biosecurity in the agriculture sector. This translates to a comprehensive and integrated approach to manage risks to food and agriculture (including fisheries and forestry) and associated risks to the environment.

By prioritizing biosecurity, FAO aims to:

• Protect food production: Minimize losses caused by pests, diseases, and invasive species ensuring a stable, secure, and safe food supply for a growing global population.
• Promote human, animal and plant health and biodiversity: Responsible production and consumption practices to enhance the well-being of humans, animals and plants, protect biodiversity, fostering a healthier and more sustainable agricultural sector.
• Reduce economic impacts: Curb the economic burden associated with pest and disease outbreaks, protecting livelihoods, health, agricultural productivity and promoting economic development.

One Health and biosecurity converge as a common path leading to improved biological risk management across agrifood systems, as the drivers of risks are interconnected. One Health is an integrated, unifying approach that aims to sustainably balance and optimize the health of people, animals, plants and ecosystems. It recognizes that the health of humans, domestic and wild animals, plants, and the wider environment are linked and interdependent. One Health principles enhance biosecurity by fostering interdisciplinary collaboration to prepare, prevent and control pests and diseases.