Action in the UK

The Great Britain Non-native Species mechanism

One of the key recommendations of the Defra Non-Native Species Review was that there was a need for a single co-ordinating body.  This has been implemented by the creation of the GB Non-native Species mechanism that is made up of the Programme Board and its Secretariat in conjunction with a Risk Analysis Panel (RAP), a Stakeholder Sounding Board (SSB), the  Stakeholder Forum and the creation of working groups as necessary.  The importance of stakeholder involvement will be reflected in the use of working groups, the Sounding Board and the annual Stakeholder Forum.

Further information on these groups and their work, and notes of meetings are published on the Secretariat website.

Risk analysis

The GB NNS Risk Assessment methodology has been developed to provide the Programme Board with robust risk-based evidence to underpin its decision making, focusing its efforts to minimise the risk and negative impacts of invasive non-native species in Great Britain.  Specific risk assessments are carried out by individual external experts and peer reviewed by the Non-native Species Risk Analysis Panel.  The NNRAP is a core group of risk assessment experts who provide advice on risk associated with non-native species and provide management advice to the Programme Board.

Invasive non-native species framework strategy for Great Britain front coverInvasive non-native species framework strategy published

Defra, the Scottish Executive and Welsh Assembly Government launched the Invasive non-native species framework strategy for Great Britain on 28th May 2008.  The Strategy is intended to provide a strategic framework within which the actions of government departments, their related bodies and key stakeholders can be better co-ordinated. Its overall aim is to minimise the risks posed, and reduce the negative impacts caused, by invasive non-native species in Great Britain. This strategy was produced by a working group of key stakeholders from industry, Non Governmental Organisations and government. 

Importing non-native animals – what you need to know leaflet

In January 2008, we published this new leaflet, for anyone planning to import, keep or release non-native animals [PDF] (135 KB), setting out the law and guidance you need to consider before you do so.

Page last modified: 23 October 2008
Page published: 23 October 2008