FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:

Tackling the threat of invasive non-native species

Ref: 56/07
Date: 28 February 2007

Defra, along with the devolved administrations of Great Britain (the Welsh Assembly and Scottish Executive) is today launching a consultation to help tackle invasive non-native species.

Invasive non-native species pose a very serious threat to our native plants and animals throughout Great Britain, and have been identified as the second biggest threat to biodiversity worldwide.

Barry Gardiner, Minister for Biodiversity, said:

"Invasive non-native species not only have a detrimental effect on our native wildlife and habitats, but also our economy: agriculture, forestry and fisheries all suffer from their impacts. In fact it's estimated that invasive non-native species cost the British economy approximately £2billion per year.

"Once these species become established complete eradication is often impractical and unaffordable, leaving long-term control as the only alternative. Early intervention is essential, as was demonstrated by recent work that has successfully stemmed the spread of Ludwigia - an invasive non-native weed that blocks waterways. This has potentially saved millions of pounds in the long term.

"It's vital that we are able to deal with the range of invasive non-native species that have been introduced to our shores, as well as guarding against future introductions.

"Our three Administrations and a host of government agencies and non-government organisations have come together to develop this draft strategy for Great Britain. It offers a co-ordinated and considered approach to coping with these "alien" species."

The Invasive Non-Native Species Framework Strategy proposes a way in which stakeholders can work together to guard against invasive non-native species through: