Scotland’s Plant Health Centre and EPIC, the Centre of Expertise on Animal Disease Outbreaks have launched a new video animation explaining the risks of bringing animal and plant products into Great Britain. It highlights the potentially devastating impacts that contaminated products can have on farming communities and the environment.

The animation was introduced during an event at the Royal Highland Show. At the animation launch, over 50 researchers, livestock stakeholders and policymakers heard from EPIC and PHC scientists. 

The minister for Agriculture and Connectivity Jim Fairlie MSP spoke at the event. He said 'more needs to be done to improve the UK’s border biosecurity... people bringing these products into the country is endemic. 

Plans are now underway to show the animation in ports and airports to ensure that the public are aware of the risks of bringing back plant and animal material from abroad.