Publications
Thematic highlights
All publications
Sustainable agricultural mechanization - Fifteen things you need to know
04/2026
The global efforts led by the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO) to eradicate hunger and malnutrition include the transition to sustainable crop production systems, which produce more with less. Part of the Organization’s work in this domain is to enhance farmers’ adoption of sustainable agricultural mechanization (SAM). This leaflet answers common questions about FAO’s work on SAM.
Fertilizers – Ten things you need to know
04/2026
This leaflet aims to enhance understanding of the role of fertilizers in agrifood systems by addressing key questions in a clear and accessible format. It provides insights into the impact of fertilizers on sustainable agriculture, their role in plant nutrition, soil fertility and crop production, and FAO’s related work.
Field survey guidance for Ralstonia solanacearum
11/2025
This publication provides easy-to-follow protocols for technical personnel of national plant protection organizations in Africa to survey Ralstonia solanacearum, commonly called bacterial wilt. It is designed to aid in the monitoring, detection, sample collection, and diagnostics of Ralstonia solanacearum, ensuring effective phytosanitary decision-making to manage the pest risk and protect trade in plants and plant products.
Field survey guidance for Fusarium oxysporum f. sp. cubense Tropical Race 4
11/2025
This field survey guidance provides easy-to-follow guidelines for technical personnel of national plant protection organizations, to survey Fusarium oxysporum f. sp. Cubense Tropical Race 4 (FOC TR4). FOC TR4 is a major pest threatening global banana production, can cause 100 percent yield loss on a farm, and is challenging and costly to manage.
International Code of Conduct on Pesticide Management – Guidance on options for reducing risk when phasing out pesticides
07/2025
This FAO-WHO guidance document provides a roadmap for governments and stakeholders to safely phase out hazardous pesticides. It offers practical tools and real-world examples to help countries, especially low- and middle-income nations, manage the legal and social challenges of pesticide withdrawal. The guide promotes transparency, enforcement, and the use of safer alternatives, making it a key resource for anyone involved in pesticide regulation, public health, or sustainable development.