32 countries are participating in the campaign, with AGES representing Austria, which is taking part for the first time this year. Johannes Pleiner-Duxneuner, Managing Director of AGES, emphasises the strategic importance of Austria's participation: "Plant health is a central element of our One Health approach - it not only affects agriculture, but is directly linked to the health of humans, animals and the environment. Our aim is to prepare scientifically sound information in such a way that it is understandable for citizens and can be used in everyday life - because effective plant protection starts with knowledge."
The campaign focuses on target group-orientated information materials, cooperation with airports, for example, and the active involvement of the public - for example through social media campaigns and activities in public spaces. The campaign places particular emphasis on citizen participation and practical action: even simple measures such as not taking plant souvenirs from your holiday, reporting suspicious symptoms of damage or selecting native plants in your garden make a contribution to plant health.