Invasive alien species are one of the most significant and rapidly growing threats to biodiversity worldwide. Across ecosystems, they disrupt ecological processes, outcompete native species and can drive irreversible changes to habitats and livelihoods. Recent global assessments highlight the scale of this challenge. The IPBES Thematic Assessment Report found that invasive alien species have contributed to approximately 60% of recorded global extinctions and were the sole driver in around 16% of them. Their impacts are already visible across Europe, where increasing trade, travel and climate pressures are accelerating introductions and spread, often faster than systems can respond.

To explore how earlier, faster and more coordinated action can change this trajectory, IUCN Save Our Species is pleased to invite you to our upcoming webinar:

Act early, act fast: funding rapid response to invasive alien species in Europe

This session will bring together leading experts and practitioners working on the frontlines of invasive alien species management. Through practical case studies and an interactive panel discussion, we will examine what enables effective rapid response in real-world conditions, from early detection and decision-making to financing and implementation. The webinar will also introduce the European Invasive Alien Species Rapid-Response Fund, supporting targeted action across the region.

Facilitator: 

• Professor Aileen Mill, Professor in Modelling, Evidence and Policy, Newcastle University, United Kingdom

Speakers:

• Tim Adriaens, Ecologist, Research Institute for Nature and Forest (INBO), Belgium

• Mieke Hoogewijs, Biodiversity Advisor – Fauna & Flora, Department of Environment and Nature Conservation, Province of Antwerp, Belgium

• Danijel Kanski, Marine Conservation and Fisheries Programme Coordinator, Hippocampus Association, Croatia

• Ana Nieto, Head, IUCN Species Conservation Action Team, Switzerland