New rules to fighting alien invasion

New legislation to prevent and manage the rapidly growing threat from invasive species in Europe has been proposed by the European Commission

The commission estimates that more than 12,000 species in Europe are alien to the natural environment, and cause damage worth at least €12 billion each year.

Invasive alien species can seriously damage ecosystems and cause the extinction of species that are needed to maintain the balance of Europe’s natural environment, says the commission, citing the example of grey squirrels, which are outcompeting red squirrels.

The commission claims that, after habitat loss, invasive alien species is the largest cause of biodiversity loss in the world. Its proposals include member states drawing up a list of invasive alien species of concern, based on risk assessments and scientific evidence. Under the plans, selected species will be banned from being imported into Europe.