Background
They are one of the five main drivers of biodiversity loss and cost the EU over €12 billion annually. Increase in trade and transport, climate change and land-use changes are accelerating the introduction, establishment and spread of IAS, making effective control measures more urgent than ever.
The EU is dedicated to preventing and mitigating the harmful effects of IAS on biodiversity and ecosystem services. The EU Biodiversity Strategy for 2030 aims to control established IAS and halve the number of Red List species threatened by them by 2030.
The Invasive Alien Species Regulation (Regulation (EU) 1143/2014) establishes a coordinated approach across Member States. A key component of the regulation is the list of Invasive Alien Species of Union Concern, which requires Member States to take preventive, early detection, and management actions for listed species.
To support these measures, the EU has developed several tools to enhance the monitoring and management of IAS. The European Alien Species Information Network (EASIN) is an online platform that provides comprehensive data to aid in policy implementation. The Species Search and Mapping Tool allows users to track the distribution of alien species listed under the Union List across Europe. Additionally, the IAS Notification System enables EU countries to report new sightings and the measures taken to control IAS.
Project
OneSTOP seeks to minimise the introduction, establishment and spread of terrestrial invasive alien species.
It does so by integrating new detection approaches with data dissemination methods and models to prioritise species and action through stakeholder engagement and effective management. By leveraging technologies including computer vision, environmental DNA (eDNA) and citizen science, the project is developing novel approaches for species detection. To support policymakers and practitioners, OneSTOP is implementing a data-driven prioritisation system that uses automated workflows, model projections, and multi-criteria analysis to assess and rank risks effectively. By ensuring that IAS data and software are open and FAIR, the project facilitates rapid information sharing to inform rapid action.
OneSTOP is also incorporating co-creation methodologies through five Living Labs, culturomics for socioeconomic insights, and active stakeholder participation to harmonise policy goals, enhance public engagement and improve IAS management strategies.
