Topic:
Country: Turkey
Delegate Name: Annabelle Peters
Committee: IUCN
Topic: Regulation of Invasive Species
Country: Türkiye
School: The Ellis School
The regulation of invasive species is a crucial environmental and economic issue affecting ecosystems worldwide. Invasive alien species (IAS) are non-native organisms introduced to new environments, either intentionally or accidentally, where they disrupt native biodiversity, alter habitats, and cause economic damage. These species can spread rapidly due to a lack of natural predators or competition, often outcompeting native flora and fauna. Common pathways for IAS introduction include global trade, transportation, agriculture, and climate change-driven habitat shifts. Regulation of invasive species takes place in various ecosystems, including forests, freshwater and marine environments, agricultural lands, and urban areas. The issue involves multiple stakeholders, including national governments, international organizations, environmental NGOs, industries such as agriculture and fisheries, and local communities. Millions of people worldwide are affected, as IAS can threaten food security, damage infrastructure, reduce agricultural productivity, and harm commercial fisheries. Economically, IAS causes billions of dollars in damage annually, with direct impacts on industries such as forestry, farming, and tourism. Regulating IAS is vital because their spread threatens global biodiversity, disrupts food chains, and causes irreversible ecological damage. Additionally, invasive species can serve as vectors for diseases, increasing public health risks. Without proper regulation, invasive species can lead to the extinction of native species, the collapse of ecosystems, and severe economic losses. Effective IAS regulation requires comprehensive strategies that include prevention, early detection, rapid response, control, and long-term monitoring.
The United Nations and other international bodies have recognized invasive species as a significant global threat. The Convention on Biological Diversity (CBD) addresses IAS under Article 8(h), calling on countries to “prevent the introduction of, control, or eradicate alien species that threaten ecosystems, habitats, or species.” Additionally, Aichi Biodiversity Target 9 emphasizes the need for countries to identify and manage IAS to minimize their impact. UN officials have highlighted the urgency of addressing IAS. The UN Environment Programme (UNEP) has stated that invasive species “pose one of the greatest threats to biodiversity and ecosystem stability” and has called for increased international cooperation to mitigate their spread. The Intergovernmental Science-Policy Platform on Biodiversity and Ecosystem Services (IPBES) has estimated that IAS are responsible for 60% of global species extinctions. Several key international agreements address the regulation of invasive species, including The Ramsar Convention on Wetlands, The International Plant Protection Convention (IPPC), and The Ballast Water Management Convention. The Ramsar Convention on Wetlands includes measures to prevent invasive species from degrading wetland ecosystems. The International Plant Protection Convention (IPPC) establishes standards for preventing the spread of invasive pests in agriculture and forestry. The Ballast Water Management Convention regulates how ships discharge ballast water to prevent the introduction of invasive marine species. Non-Governmental Organizations (NGOs) such as the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) and the Global Invasive Species Programme (GISP) work to research, advocate for policy changes, and assist governments in developing IAS management strategies. Despite these efforts, many countries still struggle with enforcement, funding, and coordination in combating invasive species. Effective international regulation remains a challenge, requiring stronger global cooperation and stricter biosecurity measures.
Türkiye faces a growing problem with IAS, particularly in marine and freshwater ecosystems. The Turkish Ministry of Agriculture and Forestry has identified species such as the lionfish (Pterois miles) in the Mediterranean and the signal crayfish (Pacifastacus leniusculus) in freshwater habitats as harmful to native biodiversity. Over 450 IAS have been reported along Türkiye’s coastline, affecting fisheries and tourism. The Turkish government has adopted a National Biodiversity Strategy and Action Plan, aligned with EU regulations, to regulate and manage IAS. The country has also implemented projects such as the “Addressing Invasive Alien Species Threats in Terrestrial Areas and Inland Waters” initiative to strengthen monitoring, legal frameworks, and public awareness. Türkiye supports stronger UN policies promoting coordinated global action, financial assistance for affected countries, and stricter regulations on the international trade of potential IAS.
Türkiye proposes a multi-faceted approach to IAS management, focusing on prevention, rapid response, and long-term control.
Plan A: Prevention and Early Detection System
1. Establish an Invasive Species Monitoring Network (ISMN): A real-time national database to track IAS presence and movement in Türkiye’s ecosystems. This will involve collaboration between government agencies, universities, and environmental organizations.
2. Strengthen Border and Trade Controls: Implement stricter regulations on imports of live plants, animals, and shipping ballast water to prevent unintentional IAS introductions.
3. Develop an IAS Risk Assessment System: Before approving imports of foreign species, conduct ecological risk assessments to evaluate potential environmental threats.
Plan B: Rapid Response and Eradication Measures
1. Create a National Rapid Response Task Force: A specialized team responsible for immediate action against newly identified IAS, including containment and removal programs.
2. Pilot Eradication Programs in High-Risk Areas: Implement removal campaigns targeting high-impact species such as lionfish in the Mediterranean and water hyacinth in freshwater systems.
3. Use Biological Control Agents: Develop and introduce natural predators or biocontrol methods where safe and scientifically justified to manage IAS populations.
Plan C: Long-Term Management and Public Engagement
1. Build More Sewage Treatment Facilities: Many invasive aquatic species thrive in polluted waters where native species struggle to survive. Improving water quality will help native species outcompete invasive ones.
2. Develop Public Awareness and Education Campaigns: Engage local communities, farmers, and fishermen in IAS reporting and control efforts through workshops, media campaigns, and citizen science initiatives.
3. Encourage Sustainable Fishing Practices: Incentivize the fishing industry to harvest invasive species such as lionfish for commercial use, turning an environmental problem into an economic opportunity.
These plans will work by combining prevention, control, and public participation to ensure a comprehensive, long-term strategy for IAS management in Türkiye. Türkiye urges the UN to support the development of regional cooperation mechanisms, increased funding for IAS research, and enhanced trade regulations to mitigate the risks posed by invasive species.
