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EU presents policy options for EU strategy on invasive species |
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13:37, December 06, 2008 |
The European Commission on Friday presented a series of policy options for developing a European Union (EU) strategy to deal with species from abroad which are threatening European biodiversity.
The proposed options include maximizing the use of existing legislation together with voluntary measures. This would involve carrying out risk assessments using existing institutions such as the European Food Safety Authority. Proposed voluntary measures include regular border control checks by member states and voluntary codes of conduct to encourage responsible behavior by retailers and consumers.
The commission proposed the immediate setting up of an EU-wide early warning and information system to report new and emerging species.
Another option is to amend existing legislation to cover a broader range of potentially invasive organisms. The list of species banned under trade regulations for wildlife could also be extended.
The last option is to develop a new legal framework for tackling invasive species with independent procedures for assessment and intervention. A dedicated agency could also be set up to deal with technical aspects. Mandatory monitoring and reporting procedures and rapid response mechanisms could also be established.
Feedback from stakeholders and other EU institutions will be taken into account by the commission in finalizing its proposal for an EU strategy which it intends to bring forward in 2010.
"Invasive species are a major threat to biodiversity. Halting the loss of biodiversity in the EU will not be possible without tackling the problem of these unwelcome visitors," said EU Environment Commissioner Stavros Dimas.
"Given the way that these become quickly established and spread, measures taken by one member state can have no effect if neighboring countries fail to take action or respond in an uncoordinated manner. The ecological, economic and social consequences of the spread of invasive species for EU countries are serious and need a harmonized response."
Invasive species are a major threat to native plants and animals in the EU. Invasive species can disrupt local flora and fauna and cause considerable damage to nature and human health.
They can also have significant economic impacts: controlling invasive species and repairing the damage they do is estimated to cost European economies at least 12 billion euros (15 billion U.S. dollars) each year.
Although some EU countries have legislation to protect their national biodiversity, there is no harmonized approach across the EU.
Source: Xinhua
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