Environmental risk assessment before introduction, reintroduction or cultivation of wild animal and plant alien species

Before the introduction or reintroduction of wild alien plants and animals into the natural environment, or the cultivation of wild alien animals, a risk assessment for nature is required. The assessment is conducted for each case of introduction or cultivation individually. If any part of the plant or animal can reproduce independently, an assessment is also required for those parts. 

The Ministry of Natural Resources and Spatial Planning is responsible for conducting the assessment.

Implementation of the Action Plan

A significant portion of invasive alien species is unintentionally introduced into new environments through human activities (e.g. escaping from captivity, transporting contaminated materials, as stowaways in transport, spreading through corridors or spontaneous dispersal). Invasive species negatively impact nature and people, making the management of unintentional introduction and spread pathways one of the most important and effective tools for preventing and controlling the introduction or spread of invasive alien species.

The Action Plan for Addressing Priority Pathways of Introduction and Spread of Invasive Alien Species (2022–2027) was prepared by Slovenia in accordance with the requirements of Regulation (EU) 1143/2014 on the prevention and management of the introduction and spread of invasive alien species. It addresses three priority pathways of introduction and spread identified in Slovenia: the natural dispersal of invasive alien species introduced in the past, ornamental purposes (excluding horticulture) and pets/aquarium/terrarium species.

The plan includes a timeline and description of the measures to be taken, as well as voluntary measures to address priority pathways and prevent the unintentional introduction and spread of invasive species into or within the Union. Emphasis is placed on raising awareness, preparing best practices, identifying species that could replace invasive alien species in ornamental use, training, and adapting the behaviour of stakeholders.

Various expert organizations from different sectors are involved in the implementation of the Action Plan.

CONTROL OF INTRODUCTION AND SPREAD povezava na Control of introduction and spread

Implementation of the Communication Plan

As part of the Action Plan’s implementation, The Communication Plan for Invasive Alien Species for the period 2023-2027 was developed by the Institute of the Republic of Slovenia for Nature Conservation, in consultation with stakeholders and Action Plan implementers. The Communication Plan supports the implementation and achievement of the goals of the Action Plan, thus reducing the likelihood of introduction and spread of invasive alien species through the three priority pathways identified in Slovenia.

Various expert organizations and stakeholders from different sectors and fields are involved in implementing the Communication Plan, with the Institute of the Republic of Slovenia for Nature Conservation coordinating their efforts.

By conducting communication activities, we will contribute to preventive measures and help reduce the introduction and spread of invasive species, as well as their negative impacts. The Communication Plan will also assist in preparing and implementing projects that address the issue of invasive alien species.