PurPest: Using VOC sensor technology to detect invasive plant pests in European horticulture and forestry

PurPest: Using VOC sensor technology to detect invasive plant pests in European horticulture and forestry European scientists are determining plant pest-related odours to stop the spread of harmful organisms. Do you ever wonder where the plants around you come from? What is behind forest decline and agricultural yield failure? And how can we keep European landscapes safe from pests and diseases? There are no easy answers and no silver bullets. However, a lot of work is being done to keep plants healthy and the public unaffected by the damage inflicted on plants by insects, nematodes, and pathogens. Most of us are still unaware of the pests attacking our silent companions that provide oxygen, shade, food, fodder, and escape from cities dominated by concrete and steel.