Rising concentrations of atmospheric carbon dioxide [CO2] and subsequent changes in climate, including temperature and precipitation extremes, are very likely to alter pest pressures in both managed and unmanaged plant communities. Such changes in pest pressures can be positive (migration from a region), or negative (new introductions), but are likely to be accompanied by significant economic and environmental consequences. Recent studies indicate the range of invasive weeds like kudzu, and insects like mountain pine beetle have already expanded to more northern regions as temperatures have risen. To reduce these consequences, a better understanding of the link between CO2/climate and pest biology is needed in the context of existing and new strategies for pest management. Here we provide an overview of the probable biological links, the vulnerabilities of existing pest management, (esp. chemical control) and provide a preliminary synthesis of research needs that could potentially improve our ability to monitor, mitigate and manage pest impacts.