How might climate change affect phytosanitary risks?

Climate change is likely to have a profound effect on phytosanitary risks, particularly in how it influences the behavior, distribution, and population dynamics of pests and diseases. With rising temperatures, changing precipitation patterns, and increasing frequency of extreme weather events, the conditions under which many pests thrive can change significantly.

Pests that were previously confined to specific geographic regions may find new suitable habitats as their native environments become less favorable due to climate change. For instance, warmer temperatures can lead to longer growing seasons, allowing pests to reproduce more rapidly and survive in areas that were once too cold for them. This expansion of pest ranges means that new agricultural regions could become vulnerable to infestations, increasing the likelihood of outbreaks.

Additionally, climate change can alter the dynamics between pests and their natural enemies, potentially reducing the effectiveness of biological controls and leading to more frequent and severe pest outbreaks. This cumulative increase in pest range and outbreak frequency presents a significant concern for agriculture and food security, necessitating comprehensive pest management strategies to mitigate these emerging risks.