Press Release: Environment: nature’s uninvited guests under scrutiny

Europe's biodiversity is under threat from species from abroad such as muskrats and giant hogweed, but little is known about the extent of the problem. These invasive alien species (IAS) can disrupt local flora and fauna and cause considerable damage to nature and the economy. On March 3 the Commission is launching a web-based survey to gather suggestions about how to address this issue most effectively at EU level. The results of the survey will inform a Commission communication on an EU framework for Invasive Alien Species to be adopted by the end of the year.