EIP-AGRI Focus Group Pests and diseases of the olive tree: Final report

Over 750 million olive trees are cultivated worldwide, 95% of which are in the Mediterranean region. Several insects, pathogens and nematodes affect olive trees, threatening olive production. The number of these occurrences has dramatically increased in recent years, causing serious damage to overall EU olive production. Trade and the movement of goods and people, climatic variations and changes in farming practices have facilitated the introduction, spread and establishment of some pests and diseases in olive production. Although pesticides are often used to protect olive crops against pests and disease attacks, there is increasing concern about the effects of pesticides on the environment, human health and product quality. The EIP-AGRI Focus Group ‘Pests and diseases of the olive tree’, brought together 19 experts from the five main EU olive producting countries, to answer the question: “How can we increase the sustainability of olive growing, taking into account the risks brought about by pests and diseases?” This report presents the Focus Group's main findings.