Global Live Plant Trade

Over 2.5 billion plants were imported into the United States in 2009. This global trade in live plants is a major pathway for invasion by non‐native insect pests and diseases of agricultural and natural resources. Identifying cost-efficient strategies for reducing the economic and environmental risks associated with invasive pest introduction is a major challenge.

Over the course of this synthesis effort, economists, biologists, and policy experts will work together to address this urgent need. The team will analyze geographic and temporal trends in live plant imports and will identify the specific pest risks associated with different plant and trade route pathways. Models will be used to evaluate the relative costs and benefits arising and to evaluate strategies for reducing risks through targeted inspection activities and prevention approaches. This synthesis is critically needed to help guide policy development and for prioritizing mitigation efforts to achieve the greatest returns while minimizing negative impacts on international trade.