Data suggests that less than 1% of the government’s budget for biosecurity addresses invasive species, despite the risks they pose to wildlife in the UK.
Parents have been alerted that funding levels for managing non-native plants and animals are inadequate to mitigate the threats they present to native species, impacting everything from water systems to local ecosystems.
There’s a call for increased funding for border inspections to prevent non-native species from entering the country and for supporting local organizations to address these problems directly.
A freedom of information request from Wildlife and Country Links (WCL) to the Animal and Plant Health Agency (APHA) has revealed that out of an estimated £250 million biosecurity budget, only £250,000 has actually gone to local initiatives addressing issues posed by invasive species like rhododendrons and giant blackberries that are damaging forests and grasslands.
The figures also indicate that stopping all invasive species, including the invasive Asian hornets, consumes about 3% of the broader biodiversity budget that’s meant for preserving vital habitats and species.
Conservationists have pointed out that the Asian hornet, which threatens bees and other beneficial insects, continues to be a concern despite this trend of low funding.
Research indicates that while measures in the UK may have delayed the hornets’ establishment, they are already present in many other countries. WCL emphasizes the urgent need for stronger border control and additional resources to prevent these species from making their way into the UK.
Wildlife experts mention that invasive species contribute significantly to over 60% of global extinctions. In the UK, for instance, water voles are being preyed upon by non-native minks, and red squirrels are facing competition from the invasive gray squirrels.
Lisa Manning, a policy officer with WCL, noted that invasive species are among the greatest risks to native wildlife and are wreaking havoc in waterways, affecting businesses, homes, and local green sites.
She stressed the need for more funding to manage invasive species that have already made their way here, which would enable local groups to undertake necessary long-term actions.
The Environment, Food and Rural Affairs Department stated that they are enhancing national biosecurity with an investment of £208 million, alongside a recent announcement of £10 million for advanced monitoring initiatives targeting diseases and non-native species.
An APHA representative remarked that their teams are dedicated to addressing the threats posed by invasive non-native species, which cost the economy of Great Britain nearly £2 billion annually while keeping trade seamless and protecting biosecurity.
They urge the public to report any sightings of invasive species through the Non-Native Species Secretariat website.
