z-logo
open-access-imgOpen Access
The state of Canada’s biosecurity efforts to protect biodiversity from species invasions
Author(s) -
Connor H. Reid,
Emma J. Hudgins,
Jessika D. Guay,
Sean I. Patterson,
Alec M. Medd,
Steven J. Cooke,
Joseph Bennett
Publication year - 2021
Publication title -
facets
Language(s) - English
Resource type - Journals
SCImago Journal Rank - 0.51
H-Index - 9
ISSN - 2371-1671
DOI - 10.1139/facets-2021-0012
Subject(s) - convention on biological diversity , biosecurity , biodiversity , government (linguistics) , stewardship (theology) , environmental planning , environmental resource management , business , political science , geography , ecology , politics , biology , economics , linguistics , philosophy , law
Invasive alien species (IAS) pose threats to native biodiversity globally and are linked to numerous negative biodiversity impacts throughout Canada. Considering the Canadian federal government’s commitments to environmental stewardship (e.g., the Convention on Biological Diversity), the successful management of IAS requires an understanding of how federal infrastructure, strategies, and decisions have contributed to previous outcomes. Here, we present an analysis of current efforts by the federal government to prevent IAS establishment in Canadian ecosystems and the unique challenges associated with Canadian IAS management. We then examine historical and current case studies of IAS in Canada with variable outcomes. By drawing comparisons with IAS management in the United States, Australia, and New Zealand, we discuss how the Canadian government may refine its policies and practices to enable more effective responses to IAS threats. We conclude by considering how future interacting stressors (e.g., climate change) will shape how we address IAS threats, and list six lessons for successful management. Most importantly, Canada must regard biodiversity impacts from IAS with as much urgency as direct economic impacts that have historically garnered more attention. Although we focus on Canada, our findings may also be useful in other jurisdictions facing similar challenges with IAS management.

The content you want is available to Zendy users.

Already have an account? Click here to sign in.
Having issues? You can contact us here