Why is important to protect plant health
May 12, 2026
Global Korean Post
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As part of International Day of Plant Health, on May 12, the Canadian Food Inspection Agency (CFIA) is urging Canadians to take action to protect Canada’s plants—an essential resource for our food, economy, and environment.
Certain insects, plants, snails, slugs and micro-organisms can harm plants when they spread to new areas of the country. They can cause serious damage to Canada’s economy and the environment when they invade farmland, forests, parks and other natural areas. It’s up to all of us to prevent the spread of invasive species.
Protecting plant health is everyone’s responsibility. Like border control and hygiene for plants, plant biosecurity helps safeguard our food supply, protects jobs, enables smooth trade, and preserves forests and natural spaces for future generations.
Everyone can help stop the spread of invasive pests:
- Don’t bring back any vegetables, fruits, tubers, seeds, plants or soil when you travel. These may carry plant pests.
- Be cautious when buying plants, seeds or plant products online. Always verify the source and check if a phytosanitary certificate or an import permit is required before shipping.
- If you grow crops, implement crop biosecurity standards.
- If you spot any unfamiliar pests or signs of plant disease, report them to the CFIA.
Plants provide 98% of the oxygen we breathe and 80% of the food we eat. In Canada, plant-based sectors contribute $150 billion in GDP, including $33 billion in grains and oilseeds, $882 million in ornamental flowers, plants and trees, and $36.2 billion in forestry products.
by Global Korean Post
