Forest health in a changing world
A healthy forest is able to sustain the species and processes that exist within it. However, across the world, abiotic and biotic disturbances are having major impacts on the health and vitality of forests.
These disturbances can impact tree growth and survival, yield and quality of wood and non-wood products, wildlife habitat and ecosystem services, as well as the recreation, scenic and cultural values of forests. Such impacts can result in substantial economic, social, and environmental loss.Highlights
Regional forest invasive species networks
These networks play a key role in coordinating stakeholders, disseminating knowledge, and building capacities on forest health and invasive species in over 100 countries.
Climate change and forest health
Climate change represents an unprecedented challenge to the world’s biosphere and to the global community. It also represents a unique challenge for plant health.
Forest invasive species
The global movement of people and products facilitates the spread of
invasive species worldwide. They may often be unintentionally introduced through movements of goods and human activities (travels).
D-group on forest health and invasive species (FISnet)
Join the discussion on forest health and forest invasive species around the world.
Publications
Pocket guide to monitor important bark and wood-boring forest insects in Europe and Central Asia
13/03/2026
This guide addresses the growing problem of the damage caused by bark and wood-boring insects in the forests of Europe and Central Asia, highlighting the expanding threats from both native and non-native species. The guide aims to equip forest practitioners and researchers with the tools and knowledge needed to detect and monitor these harmful insects early, supporting more effective management and protection of forest resources.
Forest pest contingency plan guidelines for Europe and Central Asia
23/06/2025
Pest contingency plans (PCP) are used by national or regional plant protection organizations to ensure a plan is in place for when a new pest is detected in a particular country or region, and thus to facilitate a rapid and effective response to manage the situation. This guide outlines and discusses the elements and steps needed to formulate and implement a contingency plan for key forest pests in Europe and Central Asia.
Guide to implementation of phytosanitary standards in forestry (2nd edition)
05/11/2024
This guide, produced by an international group of scientists, phytosanitary authorities, forest experts and industry representatives and reviewed by more than 100 specialists from 46 countries, provides easy-to-understand information on how good forest management practices and well implemented phytosanitary standards can minimize pest spread and facilitate safe trade. This second edition of the guide includes updated information.
Contact
Shiroma Sathyapala
Forestry Office Forest Health and Protection
Forestry Division