Defra is launching a consultation to help tackle invasive non-native species.

The Invasive Non-Native Species Framework Strategy proposes ways in which stakeholders can work together to guard against imported threats.

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

A recent study carried out in England has shown that there are 2,721 non-native species in England, of which 1,798 (66 percent) are plants.

Complete eradication is often expensive and impractical, according to Defra. For example, it has been estimated that it would cost £1.56 billion to eradicate Japanese Knotweed (an invasive non-native weed) alone.

“It’s estimated that invasive non-native species cost the British economy approximately £2 billion per year,” said Barry Gardiner, minister for biodiversity.

“Once these species become established, complete eradication is often impractical and unaffordable, leaving long-term control as the only alternative. Early intervention is essential”

The Invasive Non-Native Species Framework Strategy proposes prevention, early detection, surveillance and monitoring, and raising public awareness and research, among other things.

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