Editorial April 2025

Abstract

As I reflect on my first few months as Director-General of EPPO, the challenges currently facing global media and scientific communities, particularly the substantial cuts to international funding, and its consequences cannot be ignored. During my recent participation in the 19th session of the Commission on Phytosanitary Measures (CPM-19), discussions took place on how plant health is intricately connected to human and environmental health. The One Health approach, which emphasizes the interconnectedness of human, animal, and plant health, is essential to our work moving forward. As I settle into my role at EPPO, I am deeply committed to advancing initiatives that support a sustainable and integrated approach to global health.

The content of the EPPO Bulletin highlights our ongoing efforts to maintain scientific integrity and optimize resources in plant protection. This issue includes EPPO Standards on Efficacy Evaluation of Plant Protection Products and EPPO Standards on Diagnostics as well as an EPPO Datasheet and several original articles. The EPPO Standards are recommendations that are addressed to the NPPOs of EPPO member countries, and this harmonized guidance helps our member countries in their work for the protection of plants and the environment.

Additionally, the EPPO Bulletin underscores our commitment to scientific collaboration and the ongoing publication of important information. Resources like the EPPO Datasheet on Chloridea virescens and the risk prioritization of bamboo species in the EPPO region serve as valuable tools for guiding policy and practice in pest management. The emergence of new pests, such as Euwallacea fornicatus in Spain and Eutetranychus orientalis in Sicily, reminds us of the evolving challenges in plant health. EPPO's ability to respond to the needs of our member countries by updating Standards and offering guidance on integrated pest management solutions highlights the importance of international collaboration. As global funding continues to shrink, it is more crucial than ever for us to unite and sustain our efforts to protect plant health. I am honoured to be part of this vital mission and look forward to the continued work we will do together.