Trade, the movement of goods and persons, has been well recognized as a primary driver for the intentional and unintentional introduction of invasive alien species into new surroundings. In this globalized world, trade effectively bridges the gap between the local and the global bringing a wide range of products from a variety of countries to the user in his or her community. This commercial exchange has been and will continue to be invaluable for economic development and secure livelihoods. Yet its costs must be addressed lest such trade, and invasive species in particular, fundamentally undermine the ecosystem services and goods upon which a significant portion of both local and global commerce relies. This approach is not “anti-trade,” but seeks to support the tenets of sustainable development by effectively managing and minimizing the risks of moving invasive species in today’s global economy. Thus arises the concept of CleanTrade.
This site aims to provide analysis and materials that will inform policy-makers and other interested stakeholders on issues related to trade and invasive species. Additional information will be forthcoming. For more information or to provide input, please contact:
Stas Burgiel, Ph.D.
Global Invasive Species Initiative
The Nature Conservancy
4245 North Fairfax Drive, Suite 100
Arlington, VA 22203 USA
Tel: +1-703-841-5300
Fax: +1-703-841-7400
Eml:
invasivespecies@tnc.org