CABI: Advancing Global Agriculture and Environmental Sustainability
CABI is an international not-for-profit organization dedicated to improving lives worldwide by solving critical problems in agriculture and the environment. Operating through a global network of scientists and key partners across more than 40 countries, the organization focuses on mitigating crop losses caused by pests and diseases, managing invasive species that threaten biodiversity, and bridging the gap in global access to scientific research.
Key Facts
- Mission: Improving global lives by solving agricultural and environmental challenges.
- Global Reach: Active in over 40 countries.
- Core Focus Areas: Food security, climate change, biodiversity, and scientific impact.
- Key Initiatives: PlantwisePlus and the BioProtection Portal.
- Funding: Supported by member country contributions and international government donors.
Funding and Global Support
CABI's operations are sustained through a combination of member country contributions and support from various international donors. According to the 2023 financial report, key contributors include the European Union, the United States Agency for International Development (USAID), and the UK's Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office. Other significant partners include the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the Netherlands, Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada, and the Swiss Agency for Development and Cooperation.
Strategic Projects and Environmental Impact
The organization implements a diverse array of projects designed to tackle the most pressing issues facing modern agriculture. These initiatives typically center on enhancing food security, addressing the effects of climate change, promoting gender and youth inclusivity, and protecting biodiversity.
Combatting Invasive Species
CABI manages numerous projects targeting invasive species—non-native organisms that cause ecological or economic harm. While some projects are regional, many focus on specific high-impact species. Notable research efforts include the study and management of invasive plants such as Japanese knotweed, giant hogweed, and Himalayan balsam. CABI is currently working to consolidate these various efforts under a single unified banner.
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PlantwisePlus: Empowering Smallholder Farmers
PlantwisePlus is a major initiative designed to reach 75 million smallholder farmers in low and lower-middle income countries. The program provides essential knowledge and skills to improve production practices, helping farmers reduce crop losses and produce safer food through sustainable methods.
To combat the threats of a changing climate, PlantwisePlus utilizes gender-sensitive and climate-resilient approaches. The program operates through three primary impact pathways:
- Pest Preparedness: Helping countries predict, prevent, and prepare for plant health threats.
- Pesticide Risk Reduction: Minimizing the hazards associated with chemical pesticide use.
- Farmer Advisory: Providing direct guidance to improve on-farm management.
The BioProtection Portal
To promote sustainable pest management, CABI offers the BioProtection Portal. This free global resource focuses on biological pest management—the use of living organisms to control pests. The portal features a searchable directory of nationally registered biopesticide and biocontrol products, providing agricultural advisors and growers with the data needed to integrate natural products into Integrated Pest Management (IPM) programs.
CABI Program Summary
| Initiative/Focus | Primary Goal | Target Audience/Subject |
|---|---|---|
| PlantwisePlus | Sustainable production and pest preparedness | 75 million smallholder farmers |
| BioProtection Portal | Access to biological pest management tools | Growers and agricultural advisors |
| Invasive Species Research | Biodiversity protection and farm production | Japanese knotweed, giant hogweed, etc. |
| General Projects | Food security and climate resilience | Global agricultural communities |
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the primary mission of CABI?
CABI's mission is to improve people's lives worldwide by solving complex problems related to the environment and agriculture, specifically focusing on pests, diseases, and invasive species.
Who funds CABI's operations?
CABI is funded by member country contributions and international donors, including the EU, USAID, and government agencies from the UK, Netherlands, Canada, and Switzerland.
What is the goal of the PlantwisePlus program?
PlantwisePlus aims to provide 75 million smallholder farmers in low and lower-middle income countries with the skills and knowledge to improve production and reduce crop losses through sustainable practices.
What does the BioProtection Portal provide?
The BioProtection Portal is a free resource that offers a searchable directory of registered biocontrol and biopesticide products to help users implement sustainable integrated pest management.
Which invasive plants does CABI specifically research?
CABI conducts notable research into several invasive plants, including Himalayan balsam, giant hogweed, and Japanese knotweed.