INVASIVE SPECIES WEEK
Invasive species are one of the main threats to biodiversity (the 5th threat, according to IPBES - Intergovernmental Platform on Biodiversity and Ecosystem Services). They also cause other significant environmental and socio-economic impacts. The recent thematic assessment of invasive alien species and their control (IPBES 2023) reveals that these species threaten people and nature in all regions of the Earth. At a global level, they represent a cost exceeding 423 billion dollars.
Citizens have a relevant role not only in preventing biological invasions, but also in mitigating their impacts. However, a large part of the population is still unaware of these issues. In this context, the SEI (Invasive Species Week) aims to contribute to increasing knowledge and awareness of the entire population about invasive alien species.
Following the success of the National Invasive Species Week 2020, which took place for the first time only in Portugal from 10 to 18 October 2020, the SEI has been held since 2021 in Portugal and Spain.
Invasive Species Week 2021 took place from 29 May to 6 June, with 175 activities organised by 138 entities. The following year, Invasive Species Week 2022: Portugal and Spain (ISP 2022) took place from 21 to 29 May, with 257 activities organised by 228 entities participating in the Week. Invasive Species Week 2023 took place from 13 to 21 May, with 254 entities participating, organising 282 activities. In 2024, there will be more than 380 activities, with more than 230 entities involved.
