News Published: 20 May 2024

In BGCI we are committed to plant health, and the International Plant sentinel Network (IPSN) is specifically dedicated to promoting plant health and best biosecurity practices for botanic gardens and arboreta worldwide.

We recently commemorated Plant Health Week, a collaborative effort by over 30 UK organizations to raise awareness and engagement on plant health and biosecurity. This annual event culminates with the International Day of Plant Health, recognized by the UN, to highlight the importance of protecting plant health for biodiversity, environment, hunger reduction, poverty alleviation, and economic development.

Throughout the week, to raise awareness and knowledge about plant health protection, we provided valuable information and shared new resources related to surveillance activities and biosecurity best practices. If you weren’t able to join us, don’t worry! You can catch up on all the highlights and access the shared resources in the IPSN Plant Health Week special newsletter.

This newsletter includes information and resources on:

• The IPSN history, the greatest achievements, and current members;
• Posters and factsheets to aid in the identification of targeted pest and diseases, and survey forms for the monitoring of pests and diseases;
• BGCI’s biosecurity certification and guidelines, as well as new poster and leaflet on biosecurity pathways, mitigation measures and extra resources for botanic gardens and arboreta;
• The introduction of the UKGSN new initiative and the Tree Health Pilot activities;
• A compilation of UK and international plant health resources.

We hope you enjoy exploring our special newsletter and learn more about plant health!