The United Nations designated 12th May as the International Day of Plant Health to raise global awareness on how protecting plant health can help end hunger, reduce poverty, protect biodiversity and the environment, and boost economic development.  

• Plant health is important for ensuring food security, protecting biodiversity, and preventing the spread of pests and diseases that harm plants, animals, and humans. 
• The Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) of the United Nations is leading global efforts to promote plant health and prevent the spread of pests and diseases.