Resource information
It is now recognized that invasive alien
species (IAS) pose a major threat to agricultural and
natural ecosystems, and to human health and livelihoods.
These non-native species, which are accidentally or
intentionally introduced into new areas, range from microbes
to mammals. This report examines the precise origins of many
existing IAS problems, particularly in the developing world,
which remain poorly understood. This complicates assessments
of the relative importance of different vectors and pathways
for IAS introductions, and the prediction of future risks.
International assistance programs can facilitate both
deliberate, and unintentional IAS introductions. Such
misjudgments and accidents are costly; indeed, their
negative effects may be far greater, and more long-lasting
than the positive impacts of the aid programs from which
they arose. It is thus suggested that knowing how, and from
where, IAS are being introduced are important first steps in
the development of effective prevention and early detection
schemes. An urgent, and fuller, assessment is needed on the
nature and severity of IAS threats associated with
international assistance programs. Particular attention
needs to be paid to vectors and pathways of movement. Part
of the focus should be on case studies, in order to
elucidate more fully constraints in relation to existing
prevention schemes. Nonetheless, some actions should be
considered in advance, including awareness raising to aid
agencies, and promoting the development of voluntary codes
of conduct, and risk assessments.
