The Convention on Biological Diversity (CBD), through the Kunming-Montreal Global Biodiversity Framework (KMGBF) adopted in 2022, established Target 6, which aims to: ‘Reduce the introduction of Invasive Alien Species by 50% and minimize their impact’.
To support the achievement of this target - and the implementation of the entire KMGBF - the European Commission, through its Knowledge Centre for Biodiversity (KCBD), in partnership with the Centre for Mediterranean Cooperation of the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN Med) and the Royal Belgian Institute of Natural Sciences (RBINS), hosts and coordinates the European subregional Technical and Scientific Cooperation support Centre (TSCC).
The TSCC operates through a decentralized model, utilizing KMGBF target-specific Knowledge Hubs to deliver targeted demand-driven, scientific and technical support to 45 European Parties implementing the KMGBF. For further details on the TSCC structure, refer to the CBD KMGBF website.
The Knowledge Hub on Target 6 is hosted by JRC European Alien Species Information Network (EASIN), which entails collaboration with IUCN and builds on the scalable infrastructure and institutional knowledge of EASIN. This ensures alignment with EU and global Invasive Alien Species (IAS) management priorities, while fostering collaboration among stakeholders.
EASIN is a critical pillar of EU policy addressing IAS, underpinning the implementation, monitoring and evaluation of Regulation (EU) 1143/2014 (EU IAS Regulation) and the EU Biodiversity Strategy to 2030. As the knowledge backbone of the EU IAS framework, EASIN ensures data-driven, timely, and effective decision-making by bridging science, policy, and practice. Its role in harmonizing cross-border collaboration and sectoral coordination is vital to combating the escalating threat of IAS.
EU IAS Regulation:
EASIN provides essential data (e.g. baselines), tools (e.g. IAS notification system), and expertise to support the Regulation implementation, monitoring and evaluation directly advancing Target 12 of the EU Biodiversity Strategy for 2030 (50% reduction in Red List species threatened by IAS) and Action 46 (strengthening regulation execution).
Marine Strategy Framework Directive (MSFD, 2008/56/EC):
EASIN supports Descriptor 2 (non-indigenous species) by delivering science-based data and collaborative platforms for harmonized monitoring and horizon scanning, ensuring progress toward Good Environmental Status in EU marine waters.
Cross-Cutting Integration:
EASIN intersects with multiple frameworks, including:
Aquaculture Regulation (708/2007): Assessing ecological risks of non-native species in aquaculture.
Plant Health Regulation (2016/2031): Mitigating phytosanitary risks from pests.
Common Agricultural Policy (CAP) Strategic Plans: Enabling optional measures to prevent invasive plant species in agriculture.
Birds and Habitats Directives (2009/147/EC and 92/43/EEC): Facilitating targeted IAS management to protect species and habitats.
EASIN role in supporting EU environmental goals - such as IAS risk reduction and biodiversity protection - has led to its designation as the knowledge hub for Target 6 of the KMGBF TSCC. This position underscores its capacity to synthesize and disseminate expertise, ensuring EU policies align with global biodiversity targets.
The Knowledge Hub on Target 6 serves the TSCC efforts by offering tailored assistance in response to requests from the Parties through the following core functions:
Ensures access to standardized, up-to-date data, resources, and tools related to IAS, enabling Parties to monitor, report, and manage IAS effectively.
Addresses Parties prioritised needs through customised training workshops and webinars to enhance national and regional capacities for data collection, reporting, and analysis.
Delivers evidence-based policy recommendations and case studies to strengthen IAS governance.
Promotes transnational collaboration through expert networks, stakeholders’ engagement, and knowledge exchange via the EASIN platform. This helps parties align initiatives and share best practices, fostering adaptive and inclusive responses to IAS
Aids Parties in developing and implementing Target 6 headline indicators. This includes computational tools and datasets to streamline compliance with reporting requirements and assists the Parties in preparing national reports ensuring alignment with global standards and frameworks.
Uses TSCC communication channels and joint campaigns to raise awareness and ensure equitable access to resources, particularly for under-resourced regions. This includes translating materials into multiple languages and providing customizable data packages.
A comprehensive species catalogue: over 14,000 alien species recorded in Europe
Tools and data: species search and mapping; reporting platforms (web and smartphone applications); visualization tools for exploring citizen science reports, dynamic maps, early detection notifications from Member States.
Capacity-building resources: species factsheets and training materials; awareness raising materials; codes of conduct and guidelines.