Antimicrobial resistance and chemical use in plants
When we protect plants,
we protect lives.
#PlantHealthDay
Intensified agriculture has increased agrochemical use, especially pesticides, to reduce crop losses.
However, misuse and overuse of pesticides (including antibiotics) can harm human, environmental, animal and plant health. Although the amount of antibiotics used in crop protection is relatively low compared to that used in livestock and human health, there is a real risk of antimicrobial resistance (AMR), especially since global monitoring of the quantities used is limited. The AMR could also be induced by fungicides use, which constitute one of the most important antimicrobials used in plant health and for which certain chemical groups are similar to those used in human and animal health.
When used correctly, pesticides can have significant socio-economic and environmental benefits such as ensuring safe, pest-free, healthy, and affordable food; contributing to secure farm incomes; and enabling sustainable farm management through efficient use of soil and water.
In action: How FAO and the IPPC are protecting plant health
- The IPPC surveys on antibiotic and fungicide use aimed to increase knowledge on antimicrobial use in plant health
- FAOSTAT collects data on quantities of antibiotic and fungicide use
- FAO’s InFARM system enhances data collection on antimicrobial use by collecting information on type of antibiotics authorized in each participating country, on which crops, for which disease, the quantity applied, the surface or method of application
Call to action
Governments, plant health personnel, academia and the private sector should promote the proper use of pesticides in the sustainable intensification of agriculture to minimize their negative effects on farmers, consumers and the environment.
A global shift towards sustainable pest management practices that reduce reliance on pesticides yet provide effective plant protection is necessary.
Regulatory management of pesticides and farmer education should also be strengthened to address the overuse and misuse of pesticides.
Why does protecting plants and crops matter?
Plant pests destroy up to 40 percent of global crops annually. Protecting plants can help:
- Achieve a zero-hunger world
- Reduce poverty and inequality
- Protect biodiversity
- Support livelihoods of rural farmers
- Sustain economies around the world