An early warning and information system for invasive alien species in Europe

Release date	24/09/2008
Contributor	spyropoulou
Geographical coverage	Europe, European Union, Pan -European
Keywords	invasive species information
Concerned URL	http://biodiversity-chm.eea.europa.eu/information/towards-early-warning-and-information-system
Source	EEA

 Invasive alien species (species from other regions of the world, brought intentionally or unintentionally by man to Europe and causing damage to the environment or to people) are a major and increasing threat to European biodiversity, habitats and economy. There is a need to improve the ability of European countries and institutions to respond to these potentail threats. Establishing an early warning system for invasive alien species is an action included in the Biodiversity Communication published in 2006 by the European Commission. The European Environment Agency is conducting a survey aimed at assessing the existing information and mechanisms for risk assessment to respond to new arrivals of unwanted alien species which may threaten biodiversity and impact ecosystems. The survey aims also at identifying the main limits and constraints to rapid and effective action.