The economic importance of locusts is evident from their impacts on livelihoods, food security and nutrition, economic development and on the environment. This foresight brief discusses some of these issues and highlights the possible role of climate change in locust infestations. Predicting and controlling locust outbreaks are some of the major challenges that countries face. Addressing these issues requires well organised early warning systems that operate within an integrated pest management context and employ innovative strategies such as ecosystem-based approaches. However, these can only work if governments employ a joined-up approach to policy implementation at all levels; collaborating with development partners and addressing some of the underlying causes.