Protecting Ireland’s marine and coastal environments
Non-indigenous species (NIS) are species introduced outside their natural range, either intentionally or accidentally, through human activities. Some non-indigenous species become invasive alien species (IAS), causing harm to native biodiversity, marine habitats, ecosystem functioning, fisheries, aquaculture and other marine-based activities.
Ireland’s marine and coastal environments are vulnerable to the introduction and spread of non-indigenous species through a range of pathways, including international shipping, ballast water, hull fouling, aquaculture, recreational boating, fishing equipment and other maritime activities. Climate change and changing environmental conditions may also increase the likelihood of new species establishing and spreading.
The National Biodiversity Data Centre (NBDC), working with the Department of Climate, Energy and the Environment (DCEE), is undertaking work to develop a coordinated Marine and Coastal Non-indigenous and Invasive Alien Species Management Plan for Ireland. The initiative aims to strengthen Ireland’s approach to preventing introductions, detecting new arrivals, monitoring established populations and managing the impacts of invasive species.
The development of the plan involves a number of complementary actions:
- State of Knowledge report on marine and coastal NIIS for the island of Ireland.
- Conduct a Gap Analysis on Ireland’s current strategy.
- Identification of priority pathway and prevention actions.
- Developing guidance and best practice.
- Consult with stakeholders.
- Publish a non-indigenous species and invasive species management strategy for marine and coastal areas.
