1) European guidelines on protected areas and invasive alien species
Document: 2014
These guidelines, addressed to policy makers and managers, aim to outline the main principles to be adopted for protected areas to prevent and manage the threat of invasive species at local, national and supranational levels. The guidelines also provide concrete examples of 'best practice' for the prevention and management of invasive species in protected areas. The importance of increased awareness, data collection, information flow (including data sharing) and monitoring to ensure a rapid response to new invasions is also addressed.
2) ICES code of practice on the introduction and transfer of marine organisms
Document: 2005
These guidelines provide recommended procedures and practices to reduce the risks of adverse impacts from the deliberate introduction and transfer of marine (including brackish) organisms. The guidelines include recommendations concerning an implementation strategy and the steps to be taken before introducing a new species (including genetically modified and polyploid organisms). Procedures were also drawn up to cover the processes to be followed after a decision to proceed with a release, as well as recommendations on policies for ongoing introductions or transfers which have been an established part of commercial practice.
ICES established two working groups to study biological invasions and non-indigenous species: the ICES/IOC/IMO Working Group on Ballast and Other Ship Vectors (WGBOSV) and the Working Group on Introduction and transfers of Marine Organisms (WGITMO).
3) FAO Code of conduct for responsible fisheries
Document: 1995
The Code contains principles and international standards of conduct for responsible practices for the effective conservation, management and development of living aquatic resources, with due respect for the ecosystem and biodiversity. The Code states that States should consult with neighbouring countries before introducing non-native species into transboundary ecosystems (Article 9.2.3). Efforts should also be made to minimise the adverse impact of the introduction of alien species or genetically modified stocks used in aquaculture, including farming, into waters, especially where there is a significant risk of further spread. States should, where possible, promote measures to minimise adverse genetic, disease and other impacts of escaped farmed fish on wild stocks (Article 9.3.1).
4) IUCN guidelines for the prevention of biodiversity loss caused by alien invasive species
Document: 2000
These guidelines aim to assist local, national and regional authorities and management bodies in implementing Article 8h of the Convention on Biological Diversity (CBD): 'Prevent the introduction of, control or eradicate those alien species which threaten ecosystems, habitats or species'. The IUCN guidelines are based on the precautionary principle and on what is necessary to prevent the loss of biodiversity (native) by alien invasive species. In doing so, IUCN aims to contribute to the development of strategies, regulations and practical measures at international, regional, national and local levels (e.g. CBD, GISP, CITES, WTO, etc.) and to raise awareness of invasive alien species issues among all stakeholders. The guidelines were developed by the Invasive Species Specialist Group.
5) IUCN guidelines for reintroductions and other conservation translocations
Document: 2013
These guidelines are a response to the current acceleration of ecological change. Globally, there is increasing pressure on biodiversity due to habitat loss, biological invasions and climate change. The latter is a major trigger behind the proposal to deliberately introduce organisms outside their native range, an exercise with greater risks than enhancement or reintroduction. Although such 'assisted colonisation' is controversial, it is expected to be increasingly applied in the future for the conservation of biodiversity. The IUCN Guidelines stress the need to consider alternatives to translocations, point out gaps in ecological knowledge and emphasise the risks (potentially invasive) associated with deliberate translocations.
6) Guidelines for invasive species planning and management on islands
Document: 2018
The purpose of this document is to assist those responsible for planning and managing invasive species on islands, with the aim of reducing the negative impact of invasive species on the rich and fragile natural heritage, communities and livelihoods of the islands.