Invasive species, climate change and ecosystem-based adaptation : addressing multiple drivers of global change

Global Invasive Species Programme - September 2010 Introduction and Background Individually, climate change and invasive species present two of the greatest threats to biodiversity and the provision of valuable ecosystem services. [...] Combined, the complexity of the interaction of these two global drivers – climate change and invasive species – increases dramatically, and evidence is rapidly growing on how climate change is compounding the already devastating effects of invasive species. [...] Fortunately, we already know many of the key policy and management solutions to address the threat of invasive species,2 as well as some of the broader strategies on how to adjust to global change and the increasing uncertainties in the world around us. [...] The potential for the introduction and spread of invasive species must be considered in the development of national adaptation and mitigation strategies. [...] Society can be proactive in enhancing the resilience and adaptation of ecosystems and their services in the face of both climate change and invasive species.