Addressing the Global Threat of Invasive Species
Invasive species are an escalating global issue, wreaking havoc on ecosystems and economies. Research at Queen's is uncovering the true costs of these biological invasions, paving the way for informed policy and better management practices to mitigate the damage.
Research Challenge
Combating the Spread of Harmful Species
Invasive species pose grave threats to global biodiversity, ecosystems, health, and economic stability. These non-native organisms can inflict severe ecological damage and lead to enormous economic costs, particularly in vulnerable regions. Researchers at Queen’s are tackling this issue by combining cutting-edge ecological theory with rigorous empirical research and global data. Their findings are crucial for informing effective policy-making and strategic management practices.
Dr. Ross N. Cuthbert, a renowned expert in invasion science, has spearheaded this research. His groundbreaking work, in collaboration with both national and international partners, focuses on predicting and mitigating the spread and impact of invasive species, ensuring that policymakers and environmental managers have the tools they need to respond effectively.
Our Approach
A Multi-Pronged Approach to Invasion Science
The research employs a multi-faceted approach to understanding and managing invasive species. This includes synthesizing extensive datasets on their distribution and impacts, conducting controlled experiments to uncover invasion mechanisms, developing predictive models incorporating natural and human variables, and analyzing policies to suggest improvements.
The work has significantly advanced the field, leading to enhanced predictive models that accurately forecast invasive species' spread and impact. The research has identified invasion hotspots, emphasizing the influence of climate change, human activity, and habitat connectivity. It has also assessed the substantial ecological and economic costs of invasive species, such as the hundreds of billions of pounds in damages caused by invasive species annually.
The findings provide actionable policy recommendations, including investing in early detection systems, enhancing biosecurity measures, and promoting international collaboration for effective management and data sharing. This comprehensive approach has improved policy frameworks and management strategies worldwide.
"Just as we should act to mitigate damages from natural hazards, decision makers should invest more efficiently to manage biological invasions. Governments should adopt a more proactive strategy to prevent costly invasive alien species from arriving and spreading, while eradicating those most damaging.
These actions will help to prevent invasion costs from accelerating further in future and challenging sustainable development."
- Dr Ross Cuthbert, Queen’s University Belfast
What impact did it make?
Shaping Global Policy for a Sustainable Future
The research has significantly advanced the understanding and management of invasive species. The predictions and insights generated by this work are being utilized by policymakers, environmental managers, and conservationists worldwide. The research is expected to lead to improved policy frameworks, more effective management strategies, and heightened awareness of the economic and ecological risks posed by invasive species.
The work of Dr. Ross N. Cuthbert at Queen's University Belfast exemplifies the critical role of multidisciplinary approaches in predicting and managing biological invasions. By developing robust tools and providing actionable recommendations, this research is making a tangible difference in protecting biodiversity and mitigating the impacts of invasive species. As global challenges related to biological invasions continue to grow, Dr. Cuthbert's contributions are essential in shaping a sustainable and resilient future.
Our impact
Impact related to the UN Sustainable Development Goals
Learn more about Queen’s University’s commitment to nurturing a culture of sustainability and achieving the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) through research and education.
