On Tuesday, 24 June, the OneSTOP project launched its Belgian Living Lab with a full-day workshop organised by the Research Institute for Nature and Forest (INBO) and Meise Botanic Garden. The event brought together researchers, land managers, conservation practitioners, technology developers and regional governments from across Belgium to test and co-develop innovative technologies for detecting and monitoring invasive alien species (IAS). Participants were introduced to the OneSTOP project, its vision, and the suite of monitoring tools to be piloted in the coming months, including DNA-based identification techniques and AI-enabled detection systems.

Technologies such as the CamAlien system and the AMI trap were on display, giving participants a chance to see the equipment up close. Presentations by Bram D’Hondt (INBO) and Lori Lawson Handley (UK Centre for Ecology & Hydrology) introduced the use of computer vision and airborne eDNA for early detection of invasive species.

Facilitating introductions among all participating stakeholders was a central part of the day. Attendees shared perspectives from different sectors and discussed practical needs and opportunities for improved invasive species surveillance in Belgium’s diverse landscapes. An interactive mapping session invited attendees to indicate species of concern and suggest priority test sites, helping to align upcoming fieldwork with local priorities. The day concluded with a behind-the-scenes tour of the greenhouses at Meise Botanic Garden, including a visit to the “exotheek” to explore invasive species within the living collections.

The Belgian Living Lab is one of five pilot sites across Europe where OneSTOP technologies will be tested in partnership with local stakeholders. Insights gathered through these activities will feed into the further development and optimisation of innovative IAS detection systems designed to support rapid and efficient responses to biological invasions.

Through the launch of its Belgian Living Lab, OneSTOP continues to foster cross-sector collaboration and innovation, laying the groundwork for smarter strategies to address the growing threat of IAS.