Description
Invasive species are one of the most significant drivers of biodiversity loss worldwide, creating complex challenges for conservation practitioners, land managers, and policy makers alike. This virtual symposium, hosted by CIEEM UK Overseas Territories Special Interest Group, will explore cutting-edge approaches and lessons learned from invasive species management across the UK’s Overseas Territories. With a focus on practical experiences from island ecosystems where the impacts of invasives can be particularly acute, the programme brings together leading experts to share insights on horizon scanning, biosecurity, the use of emerging technologies such as AI and fencing, eradication initiatives, and long-term control strategies where eradication is not possible. While the examples are drawn from the UKOTs, the principles, practices, and lessons learned are highly transferable and relevant to all professionals engaged in species and habitat management across the CIEEM membership.
The event will highlight how evidence-based management, robust planning, and adaptive techniques can support not only the control of problem species but also the restoration of habitats and ecosystems. Speakers will also reflect on the broader implications of invasive species work for conservation policy, stakeholder engagement, and the integration of innovative methods into practice.
This event is suitable for anyone involved in managing invasive or problem species, planning habitat restoration, or seeking to strengthen their knowledge of ecosystem-based approaches to conservation. Join us to gain fresh insights, practical tools, and a stronger understanding of how invasive species management underpins biodiversity conservation and restoration goals worldwide.
Agenda:
14:00
- Overall introduction on invasive species management and the UKOTS. GB Non-Native Species Secretariat, James Millet and Niall Moore
14:15
- Horizon scanning to predict likely invasive species that may arrive. Centre for Ecology and Hydrology, Helen Roy
14:45
- Biosecurity practices to manage invasive species (Turks and Caicos) RSPB & Iguana Islands Partnership, Lyndon John and Simon Busuttil
15:15
- Using technology to manage invasives: Fencing and AI (Anguilla). Anguilla National Trust, Farah Mukhida
15:45
- Eradication experiences from Gough and Henderson: challenges and lessons learned. RSPB, Sophie Thomas and Andrew Callender
16:15
- Long-term control where eradication is not possible – Montserrat. Government of Montserrat (Retired), James Scriber Daley
16:45
- Forward look from the presentations, CIEEM UK Overseas Territories SIG
Who Should Attend?
Anyone involved in managing invasive or problem species, planning habitat restoration, or seeking to strengthen their knowledge of ecosystem-based approaches to conservation
