International Day of Plant Health: History, Facts & Insights

This is an in-depth look at all the must-know facts about International Day of Plant Health (2024) 🗓️ that no one tells you about. International Day of Plant Health is celebrated on May 12th.

Among the information you’ll find below: the history of International Day of Plant Health, activities to do on and how to observe this holiday, as well as important facts you ought to know about International Day of Plant Health.

📅 What day is International Day of Plant Health 2024?

In 2024, International Day of Plant Health is on Friday, May 12th. It is the 2nd Friday in May; in 2024, it is Sunday. There are until the next observance. You also can view all the fun details and facts about May 12, 2023, that you might not be aware of.

The International Day of Plant Health (I.D.P.H.) happens every year on May 12 and aims to raise awareness about the importance of preserving plant health. By focusing on plant health, we can enhance food security, ensure fair distribution of food, and promote its consumption. The United Nations established this day to encourage communities to tackle issues related to plant and crop health, ultimately alleviating hunger, reducing poverty, protecting biodiversity, and boosting economic development. The International Day of Plant Health is a continuation of the United Nations’ efforts from the International Year of Plant Health held in 2020.

📜 International Day of Plant Health History

The Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) of the United Nations was the first to draw attention to the International Day of Plant Health. They called for more investment in innovation to ensure food security and promote healthy food production and consumption. The FAO focuses on making agricultural systems worldwide more efficient, inclusive, resilient, and sustainable.

In addition to the concept, the FAO has outlined several crucial strategies to enhance global plant health. This includes promoting the development of standard methods to protect plant resources and encouraging safe trading practices that reduce pesticide usage to benefit seeds, soils, and pollinators. Governments worldwide are being urged to prioritize the health and hygiene of their agricultural products and processes, as well as emphasize the importance of scientific input in addressing these issues.

To raise awareness of these challenges globally, the United Nations General Assembly established International Plant Health Day on May 12 in March 2022. In the years to come, various events at the global, regional, national, and even agricultural levels will be organized to commemorate this day.

✅ International Day of Plant Health Facts

🔖 We need a lot more food
The Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) states that in order to provide enough food for the growing and wealthier population in the future, agricultural production needs to be boosted by 60% by 2050.

🔖 The largest industry in the world

🔖 Pests ravage crops annually
Every year, the FAO reports that plant pests and diseases cause significant harm by destroying around 40% of food crops, resulting in economic losses of up to $220 billion.

👍 Why Is International Day of Plant Health Important

Better plant and crop health results in better, healthier meals for us to eat: nutrients are not compromised, and dangerous compounds are kept out of our bodies. The International Day of Plant Health commemorates the efforts that have made this possible.

Part of IDPH’s mission is to urge governments and policymakers to demonstrate their commitment to achieving food health goals. Experts take advantage of this occasion to persuade politicians to place a greater focus on the safety of the crops we consume and sell.

The day emphasizes the importance of sustaining plant health for both communities and the environment. Improved ecosystems can improve crop quality and health, which is beneficial to everyone and everything that consumes.

🙂 How To Observe International Day of Plant Health

⚡ Support a food security charity
Support a nonprofit organization that works towards ensuring food security and sustainable agriculture. Growing Hope Globally and the AGCO Agriculture Foundation are among several groups dedicated to promoting nutritious crops for public consumption. Your contribution will greatly contribute to their mission.

⚡ Tend to your food garden with care
During this festive season, take some time to tend to your own small food garden, if you happen to have one. By nurturing your garden and adopting practices that enhance the well-being of plants, you can enjoy higher quality food and cultivate healthier crops.

⚡ Look for pesticide-free produce in grocery stores
While doing your grocery shopping at a nearby store, make sure to look for food items that are organic and free from pesticides. Although they may come at a slightly higher cost, prioritizing your health is invaluable.

📅 When is International Day of Plant Health?

Explore all 🔗 May holidays, including 🔗 Cause and other 🔗 Awareness holidays.

We will continue to update this page with new information and must-know facts about International Day of Plant Health. So be sure to check back soon.