It is estimated that around 12,000 alien species are present in Europe, of which 10 to 15% are considered invasive. Given the potential impact of alien species on ecosystems and the economy, the introduction and spread of these species have been highlighted at a supranational level in global treaties and agreements, European regulations, and regional treaties. Additionally, there are several specific guidelines and codes of conduct available for addressing alien species. Some of the key legislative and policy instruments applicable in the study area include the Belgian Act on marine environmental protection and marine spatial planning (MMM Act, 2022), the European Regulation on Invasive Alien Species (Regulation (EU) No. 1143/2014), the European Marine Strategy Framework Directive (MSFD, 2008/56/EC), and the Ballast Water Convention (2004).
This chapter discusses various regulatory and policy instruments aimed at mitigating the harmful effects of the (un)intentional introduction of alien species, by preventing new introductions as much as possible, controlling and eradicating species where feasible, and providing a management framework for widespread alien species.
NON-INDIGENOUS SPECIES IN THE BELGIUM PART OF