Help stop the spread of alien plants
Anew Europe-wide awareness campaign is calling on everyone to prevent the spread of invasive alien species.
Aliens, or non-native species, moved from their natural range to other parts of the world by humans, are on the increase globally. A small proportion of these spread and cause problems by outcompeting native species, spreading disease or damaging crops.
With more than 80 invasive alien plants and animals of concern in the EU and the UK, the new campaign is urging people to ‘Beware of Aliens’, by enhancing understanding of the threat they pose and the appropriate action to help stop their spread.
Gardeners are being asked to grow plants that are not likely to be invasive, dispose of plant material responsibly and take steps to avoid transporting seeds or root fragments on shoes, vehicle tyres and equipment into forests and
other habitats. “Some alien plants and animals have significant, irreversible negative impacts,” said Professor Helen Roy of the UK Centre for Ecology & Hydrology. “We are asking people to help prevent their spread by implementing thorough biosecurity checks, including checking, cleaning and drying equipment and clothing.”
Visit www.ceh.ac.uk for more information.