Invasive alien species (IAS) are species whose introduction and/or spread, outside their natural past or present distribution, threatens biological diversity. They may cause serious damage not only to ecosystems but also to crops and livestock, disrupting the local ecology, impacting on human health and producing serious economic effects. Associated costs are estimated to be at least EUR 12 billion per year in the EU. Moreover, due to the expansion of trade and mobility and increasing environmental disturbances, threats from IAS are increasing at an accelerated pace. Action against IAS can be taken at three levels: (1) preventing alien species from being introduced, (2) early warning and rapid response to new introductions and (3) eradication, control or containment of established IAS.
An online consultation on the issue of Invasive Alien Species was carried out in 2008, ahead of the publication of the Commission Communication COM(2008) 789 final “Towards an EU Strategy on Invasive Species”. The survey revealed widespread backing for action at EU level on invasive alien species.
The issue of IAS was addressed again by a public consultation on the Commission Communication COM(2011)244 “Our life insurance, our natural capital: an EU biodiversity strategy to 2020”
Based on the feedback received, the Commission is now further elaborating on a dedicated legislative instrument on Invasive Alien Species. In preparation of this instrument, the Commission is now seeking views on the more specific choices to be made when establishing this instrument.
To take part follow the link to the Consultation.
We are asking for your records on 17 Invasive Non Native Species through the RISC project. More information and the online recording forms can be found here.