International Conference on Invasive Alien Species Management 25-27 September 2014, Sauraha, Chitwan Nepal. Invasive species are those non-native species that threaten ecosystems, habitat or species and are key drivers of human-induced global environmental change. Invasive alien species are the second greatest agent of species endangerment and extinction after habitat destruction. Globally, almost 20% of vertebrates thought to be in danger of extinction are threatened in some way by invasive species. Invasive species have also posed serious impacts on ecosystem functioning and ecosystem services provisioning. Invasive alien species can carry a heavy economic loss, in terms of reduced crop and livestock production, reduced native biodiversity, increased production costs and so forth. With the increasing global trade and climate change the problem of invasive alien species is becoming further complicated. The issue of invasive alien species is caused by human activities associated with global linkages, network and movement, but measures have to be taken at national and local level. Realizing the threat of biological invasion, more attention has been given on research, monitoring, control and management of invasive species in the recent years by global communities. More importantly, theConvention on Biological Diversity (CBD) calls for its signatory nations to prevent the introduction, control or eradication of those alien species that threaten ecosystems, habitats or species. The different bioclimatic zones of Nepal favor the introduction of several alien species. Research, monitoring and management of biological invasions have not yet a priority in Nepal. In fact, very limited information is available regarding invasive species, their distribution and effect on the native species and ecosystems. Recently, very limited works have been initiated by various institutions in Nepal. These activities are not well coordinated and impacts of invasive species on biodiversity and livelihoods are poorly documented. On the other hand, there is a lack of national strategy document for the scientific management and control of invasive species. In this context, it is imperative to understand what have been done so far on invasive species in Nepal and across the globe. Besides, the information that will be gathered from theInternational Conference on Invasive Alien Species Management (ICIASM) will provide valuable input while revising National Biodiversity Strategy (NBS). More importantly, knowledgebase acquired from the conference will help in devising practical mechanism to control and manage invasive species for the long term conservation of rich biodiversity and well-being of Nepalese people as well as for the global community. It also provides a platform and opportunities for presenting and sharing the research findings, outcomes, recommendations and innovative ideas regarding the IAS management. ntnc.org.np/iciasm
Posted on: Mon, 27 Jan 2014 08:36:16 +0000
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