Invasive Alien Species

Invasive alien species are one of the main drivers of biodiversity loss, due to their ability to disperse and cause negative effects on native species and the environment. To reduce the introduction of invasive alien species in the future, preventive measures need to be implemented, and knowledge about pathways of introduction of new and potentially invasive alien species can facilitate tailor-made measures. The aim of this project is to contribute to the fulfilment of obligations in the CBD Aichi target 9 and the EU Biodiversity Strategy 2020 target 5, by identifying and prioritising the most significant pathways of introduction for invasive alien species by conducting a pathway analysis and horizon scanning. This identification and prioritisation is done for 10 participating countries and territories part of the NOBANIS network to assist them in minimising and preventing further introductions and establishment of invasive alien species. Based on the results from the pathway analysis and horizon scanning, this report presents a prioritised list of pathways of interest, general recommendations on measures to control pathways of interest, and advice on development of an early warning system for invasive alien species.