What's Happening?
CABI has published study briefs on the PlantwisePlus program's role in supporting climate and agricultural goals in Bangladesh, Pakistan, and Sri Lanka. The program empowers smallholder farmers to increase incomes and improve food security through sustainable practices. Bangladesh faces climate challenges due to its geographic location and dependency on agriculture. Pakistan, affected by disasters, needs resources for climate resilience. Sri Lanka's agriculture sector is crucial for rural livelihoods and faces climate vulnerabilities. PlantwisePlus integrates plant health systems into climate adaptation policies, addressing pest and disease challenges exacerbated by environmental degradation.
Why It's Important?
The PlantwisePlus program is vital for enhancing agricultural sustainability and resilience in South Asia, where agriculture is a key economic sector. By supporting smallholder farmers, the program helps mitigate climate impacts and improve food security. The integration of plant health systems into climate policies can lead to more effective adaptation strategies. This initiative addresses critical challenges such as resource constraints, technical capacities, and institutional collaboration, providing a strategic direction for sustainable agricultural development.
Beyond the Headlines
The study briefs highlight barriers to integrating plant health systems into climate policies, including shifting government priorities and limited technical capacities. The role of extension networks in driving low-emission agriculture remains unacknowledged. Structural reforms and institutional realignments are necessary to address these challenges. PlantwisePlus provides a strategic avenue for collaboration with governments, research organizations, and farmers to design transformative capacity and tackle pest and disease problems.
