Frequently asked questions

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Healthy plants are essential for our health, safe food and a healthy environment. Plants make up 80% of the food we eat, clean the air we breathe, and help combat climate change by absorbing carbon dioxide. They are also an important part of our diverse ecosystems, which include humans, animals and microorganisms.

Healthy Plants = Healthy Lives.

Plant pests include harmful organisms like bacteria, viruses, fungi, nematodes, insects, and mites that damage plants. Some pests that are non-native organisms are known as ‘invasive alien species.’ They can disrupt ecosystems when introduced into new areas. These pests are often spread through global trade and can cause serious economic, environmental, and social harm.

The EU ‘Plant Health’ law (Regulation (EU) 2024/3115) provides strict regulations to help protect plants and ensure a safe trade in plants.

In addition to this, the European Commission regularly updates a list of harmful plant organisms and emergency measures in place to manage the outbreaks of foreign or ‘quarantine pests’ from outside the EU (Regulation (EU) 2019/2072).

Yes. All EU Member States are obliged to follow EU regulations. Moreover, they are also signatories to the International Plant Protection Convention (IPPC), a global treaty aimed at preventing the spread of pests and promoting coordinated plant protection efforts.

Plants, seeds and other plant material imported from outside the EU should carry a phytosanitary certificate. This official document, which confirms that the pant is free from harmful organisms, is issued by a country’s National Plant Protection Organization (NPPO) or third parties authorised by the NPPO.

For plants that imported and exported throughout the European Union, a plant passport is their guarantee of good health.

The European Food Safety Authority (EFSA) is an agency of the European Union that provides impartial scientific advice on food and plant health risks. EFSA helps the EU assess threats posed by pests, evaluates their potential impact on agriculture and ecosystems, and supports Member States in developing early detection mechanisms.

Increased global travel, tourism, and informal trade raise the risk of new pests entering the EU. Climate change and other environmental pressures also contribute to this growing threat. That’s why being prepared and aware is more important than ever.

Raise awareness! Many people in the EU aren’t aware of the dangers posed by plant pests. Whether you're a home gardener, frequent traveller, or concerned parent, you can spread the word and make a difference.

Preventing pests from entering the EU is far easier and less expensive than eradicating them once they’re here.

Be a Plant Health Guardian. Protect plant health—and your own.

Here are some specific actions you can take:

  • Travel consciously. Don’t bring home plants, seeds, or fresh plant produce, such as fruits or veg from abroad. They could carry pests or diseases.
  • Buy responsibly: Only order plants or seeds online from trusted EU sources that provide a plant passport or certificate.
  • Check your plants: Look for unusual spots, pests, or signs of disease in your garden. If you can’t identify them, seek expert help.
  • Inspire others: Help children and your community understand why plant health matters.
  • Share the message: Talk about plant health online or with friends. Small actions can help stop big problems.