Invasive animal and plant species are one of the five greatest threats to biodiversity. To compile a list of these species, Ukraine now has a clear, transparent algorithm with defined criteria. The relevant procedure was approved by the Ministry of Economy, Environment, and Agriculture.
This was reported on the Ministry’s website.
Ecological invasion
In total, some of the more than 750 alien plant species and over 400 animal species in Ukraine exhibit invasive traits.
Invasive alien species are extremely aggressive in the natural environment. They displace native plant and animal species, thereby radically altering the structure of ecosystems. As a result, both human health and the national economy as a whole may suffer.
Essence of the document
The regulation sets forth the criteria for designating a species as invasive, as well as the procedures for preparing and coordinating such proposals.
The Ministry of Economy also outlined the key characteristics that could lead to an animal or plant being placed on the “blacklist.” These include:
- origin of the species outside Ukraine;
- ability to self-reproduce and spread;
- existence or risk of negative impact on biodiversity, ecosystem services, the economy, or public health.
To ensure transparent decision-making, the procedure provides for the involvement of representatives of the scientific community, relevant experts, and the public. Such interaction should also help raise awareness of the risks associated with the spread of these species.
“Invasive alien species pose a real threat to natural ecosystems and the economy. Implementing a clear procedure for forming the list is a systemic step toward biodiversity protection and bringing our policy in line with European standards,” commented Deputy Minister Oleksandr Krasnolutskyi.
EcoPolitic previously reported that due to global warming, the prices of certain fruits and vegetables may rise. You can learn which species are most threatened by climate change at this link.
