Assessment Report on Invasive Alien Species and their Control

September 5, 2023

The Intergovernmental Platform on Biodiversity and Ecosystem Services (IPBES) published its comprehensive “Assessment Report on Invasive Alien Species and their Control.” The report highlights that human activities have introduced approximately 37,000 alien species worldwide, including plants and animals, with over 3,500 of them identified as invasive alien species. Invasive species have played a significant role in 60% of documented global plant and animal extinctions.

The report underscores that invasive alien species represent one of the five primary drivers of global biodiversity loss, alongside land and sea use changes, direct organism exploitation, climate change, and pollution. It also highlights the negative economic impacts of these species, with annual costs exceeding $423 billion in 2019.

What are invasive alien species, and why are they considered a major threat to biodiversity?

Invasive alien species are non-native species introduced to new regions through human activities. They pose a significant threat to biodiversity because they can outcompete native species, disrupt ecosystems, and lead to the decline or extinction of local species. Invasive species often lack natural predators or controls in their new habitats, allowing them to spread rapidly and negatively impact native flora and fauna.

What are the main drivers behind the increasing prevalence of invasive alien species?

The increasing prevalence of invasive alien species can be attributed to factors such as increased human travel, trade, and the expansion of the global economy. These activities facilitate the unintentional introduction of non-native species to new regions, where they can thrive and become invasive. Globalization and intensified land and sea use contribute to the accelerated spread of invasive species.

What are some of the significant economic and ecological impacts of invasive alien species highlighted in the IPBES report?

The IPBES report notes that invasive alien species have led to economic costs exceeding $423 billion annually. They frequently reduce food supply by damaging crops and fisheries. Additionally, they can spread diseases (e.g., Zika, malaria), disrupt local ecosystems, and cause extinctions of native species. Invasive species can also promote more intense wildfires in some cases.

How are countries addressing the issue of invasive alien species, and what are the targets set for their management?

Most countries have included targets related to managing invasive alien species in their national biodiversity plans. Approximately 17% have specific national legislation addressing the issue, while 69% include it as part of legislation in other areas. In December 2022, governments agreed to reduce the rate of introduction and establishment of invasive alien species by at least 50% by 2030 under target 6 of the Kunming-Montreal Global Biodiversity Framework.

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