The European Food Safety Authority (EFSA), in collaboration with the European Commission and partners across Europe, has officially launched the third year of the #PlantHealth4Life campaign. This cross-border initiative continues its mission to raise public awareness about the critical importance of plant health to the environment, food security, and the economy.
Launched in May 2025, the third edition of the campaign emphasizes citizen engagement, practical action, and international cooperation. With the slogan “Protecting Plants, Protecting Life,” the campaign empowers people across the EU and neighboring countries to become advocates for plant health.
“Plant health is vital to every aspect of our lives, from the food on our tables to the air we breathe,” said Sylvain Giraud, Head of the Plant Health Unit at the European Commission’s Directorate General for Health and Food Safety (DG SANTE). “By understanding this connection, citizens can take meaningful action to protect what sustains us all.”
Giuseppe Stancanelli, Team Leader for Plant Health Risk Assessment at EFSA, underscored the importance of science-based policy in a globalized world. “Plants now move more than ever, which increases the risk of spreading pests and diseases. Risk assessment helps us anticipate and mitigate these threats,” he noted.
Involving 26 EU Member States, five pre-accession countries, and Switzerland, the campaign draws on a strong network of partners to reach communities across Europe. This year’s theme stresses informed participation, with activities tailored to travelers, home gardeners, and parents concerned about food safety and biodiversity.
The campaign’s educational efforts aim to address a widespread lack of awareness. While plants account for 80% of the food humans consume and play a vital role in cleaning the air and supporting biodiversity, many people remain unaware of the threats facing plant health. Outbreaks such as Xylella fastidiosa in southern Italy have caused devastating economic and ecological consequences, including the loss of millions of olive trees.
Andrzej Chodkowski, Chief Inspector of Plant Health in Poland, encouraged local action, saying, “Let’s take care of the plants in our surroundings. Together, we can bring to life the vision of ‘Protecting Plants, Protecting Life’.”
The campaign offers accessible resources such as press kits, social media materials, and educational videos. It will also make stops at fairs, schools, and public exhibitions across participating countries. The newly added members in 2025 include Austria, Bulgaria, Italy, the Netherlands, and Romania, along with Albania, Bosnia & Herzegovina, Kosovo*, and Türkiye.
#PlantHealth4Life is a multi-year effort initiated by the European Commission, grounded in comprehensive research into citizen perceptions and behaviors concerning plant health. The campaign continues to grow, aiming to build a continent-wide movement that supports a sustainable and resilient future.
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