In January 2025, the OneBiosecurity Systems and Technology for People, Places and Pathways (OneSTOP) project embarked on a mission to aid in the management of terrestrial IAS in Europe. Held at the Joint Research Centre (JRC) in Ispra, Italy, the kickoff brought together leading experts from 19 representative partner institutions, coordinated by Meise Botanic Garden. This four-day event, held jointly with our sister project GuardIAS, offered project members the opportunity to engage in active discussions on the initial steps and long-term vision of the project.

Engaging puzzle game to enhance the work relationship between GuardIAS and OneSTOP members

The opening remarks were made by Jann Martinsohn, head of the Ocean and Water unit, followed by Stelios Katsanevakis, who gave an overview of the sister project GuardIAS, coordinated by the University of the Aegean with a main focus on aquatic ecosystems, in comparison to OneSTOP’s terrestrial focal point. Additionally, Ana Cristina Cordoso, JRC project leader, introduced partners to the role European Alien Species Information Network (EASIN) plays on the grand scale of IAS information facilitation and EC service support. The EC project officers presented detailed information on the Horizon Europe Framework Programme. The two sister projects showcased their communication strategies and plans to proactively collaborate throughout the years ahead. After a packed first day, the event concluded with an engaging team game amongst all project participants, which was followed by a theatre play from EASIN team members.

Theatre play on IAS in Europe by the EASIN team (Eirini Martini on cello, Beatrice Melone and Eugenio Gervasini as actors)

Day 2 focused on IAS detection, prevention, and data integration, with discussions on the project’s joint early alert systems and EASIN database alignment. Work package leaders shared insights on strengthening monitoring and management strategies.

In the second phase of the event, during days 3 and 4, the main points of conversation and proactive discussions covered Living Labs, AI-driven detection, and policy alignment with the EU IAS Regulation. The meeting concluded with planning for coordination, risk mitigation, and stakeholder engagement, setting the stage for impactful IAS management across Europe.