Global Burden of Crop Loss
Given the pressures of climate change and growing global population, losing less of the crops that have already been sown on land or under cultivation, presents an important opportunity to enhance food security. While there is increasing recognition of potential gains from curbing post-harvest losses and consumer food waste, pre-harvest losses remain poorly understood. The Global Burden of Crop Loss (GBCL) aims to fill this gap by providing trusted, data-driven metrics on crop loss across different regions and crops. By analysing global data, assessing the impact of pests and diseases, and leveraging advanced technology, GBCL aims to equip decision-makers with the insights they need to take evidence-based action. With a clearer picture of where, how, and why crop losses occur, policymakers, researchers, and investors will be better positioned to implement solutions that improve agricultural resilience and food security globally.
Invasive plants to devastate annual wildebeest migration
According to new research, scientists have found that a number of invasive alien plant species initially introduced as ornamental plants at tourism facilities are now spreading rapidly throughout the Serengeti-Mara ecosystem, posing a major threat to wildlife, including the annual wildebeest and zebra migration as well as a range of other plant and animal species.
Biological control of hawkweeds
European hawkweeds are invasive in North American pastures, where mechanical methods of control are difficult and ineffective. Chemical control with broad-spectrum herbicides is not selective and relatively expensive, with the weed often recolonising untreated pastures. Insects that feed on hawkweeds in Europe have been studied as potential biological control agents for North America since 2000. Two agents have been released in North America – the gall wasp, Aulacidea subterminalis, and the hoverfly, Cheilosia urban.