Action to limit the risk of spread of Invasive Introduced species in the Mediterranean
The issue of invasive alien species is emerging and still poorly circumscribed, although it is acknowledged to be the second leading cause of biodiversity loss. These species know no borders, and current ways of life increase the risk of their introduction. Some pose a threat to the economy and health. Their propagation threatens Mediterranean biodiversity hotspots, sensitive areas and some Natura 2000 sites close to the entry areas (ports, airports, etc.). To respond to this evolving phenomenon, given the problematic context of climate change, we only have limited means that are not entirely environmentally friendly. There is no formalised collaboration tool in the cross-border area, be it the reporting of potential threats or the exchange of information for prevention and control purposes. This project aims to respond to this situation by devising and implementing essential cooperation tools to guarantee that knowledge, experimentation and management initiatives will be adequate. The project proposes a type of governance that involves the local institutional partners. Their decisions will be based on the organisation of a cross-border fauna and flora monitoring centre and the interaction of decision-makers and scientists. This tool will be set up as a web platform with a dedicated communication plan open to the participation of the population at large and their scientific contributions. The cross-border cluster and the tools thus developed are guaranteed by an inter-institutional collaboration agreement signed before the start of the project. This agreement establishes the framework of the common elements at stake, ensures the consistency of the actions and allows feedback on the five regional areas.