Professor Huang Wenjiang Assists UAE in Red Palm Weevil Monitoring and Control

From August 27 to September 1, 2024, Professor HUANG Wenjiang from the Aerospace Information Research Institute (AIRI) under the Chinese Academy of Sciences (CAS) participated in field experiments for the FAO Red Palm Weevil Project in the United Arab Emirates (UAE) as an international consultant for the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO). This invitation was extended by FAO and the International Center for Biosaline Agriculture (ICBA). During his time in the UAE, Professor Huang also engaged in academic exchanges.

Collaborating with experts from FAO, ICBA, and the UAE's Ministry of Climate Change and Environment (MOCCAE), Professor Huang led field experiments that integrated aerial, ground-based, and satellite remote sensing technologies to monitor red palm weevil (RPW) infestations in palm trees. This initiative aims to enhance early detection of large-scale pest and disease outbreaks using spectral analysis and to guide effective, science-based pest control measures. 

The red palm weevil is a highly invasive pest, whose spread has been worsened by global climate change. It has now impacted vegetation in over 50 countries, affecting around 40 species of palm trees and causing extensive damage to palm plantations and other crops.

The FAO's RPW project focuses on using remote sensing technologies for the timely and precise monitoring and early warning of major vegetation pests. It also aims to establish efficient models for the rapid generation and dissemination of spatial data products on a global scale. Additionally, the project supports technology transfer and capacity building to better control pest outbreaks worldwide.

Professor Huang’s team, which specializes in remote sensing for vegetation and pest and disease monitoring, has made significant progress in dynamic, high-precision pest and disease forecasting. His involvement in this project is expected to play a key role in promoting China's research in plant pest and disease control on the global stage, offering considerable practical value.

A joint field experiment for remote sensing monitoring of red palm weevil pest outbreaks is underway.