Plan to control invasive species

A PLAN to protect Britain’s biodiversity, ecosystems and economy from the risks posed by invasive non-native species will aim to minimise “potentially devastating” environmental impacts.

The Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs (Defra) said the Great Britain invasive non-native species strategy sets out an enhanced vision on prevention and management of the species in partnership with the Scottish and Welsh governments.

Non-native species were one of the top five reasons for biodiversity loss globally, with figures showing an estimated cost to the British economy of £1.84 billion a year, Defra said.

There are around 2,000 non-native species in Britain, and 10 to 12 new ones establish themselves every year.

They disrupt ecosystems, prey on or outcompete native species, spread disease and interfere with the genetic integrity of native species.*