Topic:
Country: Bolivia
Delegate Name: Avery Phillips
The estimated damage from invasive species around the world is more than $1.4 trillion. Looking at this issue from strictly an economic position it is devastating for the economy worldwide, and if something drastic does not change that number is expected to increase. Let alone the disastrous effect it poses on our Earth, species, food sources, safety and more. In Bolivia a fish called the paiche fish was accidentally introduced after a flood. This species has been a boon to the economy, in some more rural places accounting for up to 70% of fishermen’s catches. It has also caused native fish species to disappear in areas where the paiche thrive. The Bolivian government has taken action and rather than eradicating it completely, has started controlling its numbers. In 2017 at the request of INIAF, FAUNAGUA created a baseline knowledge about paiche in Bolivia and conducted training for fishermen in the Manuripi. In 2018 a resolution with the objective of regulating paiche fishing and controlling its expansion was promulgated and FAUNAGUA elaborated a strategy for the control and use of paiche. In 2019 FAUNAGUA created the first Paiche Control Plan for the Manuripi NWR and was approved by SERNAP. From just this example it is evident that the Republic of Bolivia is extremely invested in protecting biodiversity, the economy and ecosystems and wants to find solutions for the prevention of invasive species worldwide. The IUCN should help develop early detection and rapid response systems and protocols, in partnership with national governments. Acting fast can be the key to minimizing the spread of invasive species. Countries also need to commit to the rehabilitation of ecosystems and focus on removing invasive species, fostering and reintroducing indigenous species. They also need to focus on not only checking products or vehicles entering their country but ones leaving it as well. Pressure should be applied for all countries to adhere to this for the benefit of the world. The IUCN can also work together with countries to help spread public awareness and create public education campaigns about reducing the spread of invasive species and the risks they pose. This can help reduce the potential of accidental introductions and help minimize the spread of invasive species. The IUCN must work together to create effective policies and help restore biodiversity to ecosystems. Augmenting global cooperation to really make a change.
