Recommended Investment:
$250 million over five years to effectively manage and mitigate the catastrophic economic, social, and environmental impacts of invasive species in Canada. [ECCC, AAFC, DFO, CFIA, NRCan, PS, HC]
The impacts of invasive species on native ecosystems, habitats, and species is catastrophic and often irreversible. In Canada, invasive species are frequently and increasingly identified as a top threat to species at risk and economic impacts result in billions of annual losses. In the early 1960s, invasive species cost North America USD $2 billion per year, which has increased to over USD $26 billion per year since 2010. Significant impacts to the agriculture, forestry, fisheries, and tourism sectors are experienced, with the Canadian agriculture sector alone estimating a $2.2 billion annual economic impact from invasive plants.
Key Actions:
- Prevent new invasive species by identifying key pathways for the introduction and provide education, resources, and training. [ECCC, PS, CFIA, AAFC]
- Develop, implement, and monitor a National Framework for Early Detection and Rapid Response to ensure effective and early response to new and emerging invasive species. [CFIA, AAFC, ECCC, DFO, NRCan, HC]
- Enable and support cross-sectoral partnerships in planning, control, monitoring, and reporting to restore and improve habitats. [ECCC, DFO, AAFC, CFIA, NRCan, PS]
- Ensure access to, and encourage the use of, strong science to inform management and provide transparent reporting to evaluate effectiveness of programs and policies. [ECCC, DFO]
Rationale:
- Environmental impact
- Invasive species are one of the direct drivers of biodiversity loss causing irreversible damage to native ecosystems and habitats.
- Effective management of invasive species will restore and improve habitats, ensuring healthier ecosystems.
- Economic benefit
- Significant economic impacts are seen in agriculture, forestry, fisheries, and tourism. Addressing invasive species can mitigate losses to Canada’s GDP.
- Social and community impact
- Supports community wellbeing, fostering stronger local involvement and stewardship.
- Increases public awareness and participation in preventing and managing invasive species through education and training initiatives.
- Enhances cultural and ecological resilience of peoples and communities.