Gathering the collective wisdom of professional societies to identify priorities for entomology

Entomology is key to understanding ecosystems at a time of unprecedented anthropogenic environmental change and offers substantial untapped potential to benefit humanity in a variety of ways, from improving food production to managing vector-borne diseases and inspiring technological advances. We identified high priority challenges for entomology using an inclusive, open, and democratic four-stage prioritisation approach, conducted among the membership and affiliates of the UK-based Royal Entomological Society (RES). A total of 189 entomologists submitted over 700 ideas, leading to 61 priority challenges, which we organised into 11 themes: Taxonomy, ‘Blue Skies’ [research without immediate practical application], Methods and Techniques, Anthropogenic Impacts, Conservation Options, Ecosystem Benefits, Technology and Resources [use of insects as a resource, or as inspiration], Pests, Knowledge Access, Training and Collaboration, and Societal Engagement. Priority challenges include research questions, funding objectives, new technologies, and outreach goals. Examples include training taxonomists, establishing a global network of insect monitoring sites, understanding the extent of insect declines, exploring roles of cultivated insects in food supply chains, and connecting professional with amateur entomologists. Responses to different challenges could be led by amateur and professional entomologists, at all career stages. Overall, the challenges provide a diverse array of options to inspire and initiate entomological activities, and reveal the potential of entomology to contribute to addressing global challenges related to human health and well-being, and environmental change.