EU proposes new environmental legislation – pests beware

Today, the European Union (EU) proposed new environmental legislation in hopes of managing the growing threat of pests that have migrated north, thanks to global warming. Over 12,000 invasive species are wreaking havoc throughout Europe, disrupting ecosystems and causing ripple effects across the global economy.

Is there any stopping them?

These pests are causing an estimated €12 billion worth of damage each year. Crops. Trade. Water wells. Europe’s historic, rural communities are at risk of dying out.

From an ecological standpoint, invasive pests can force the extinction of some indigenous species, crippling food-chains that are vital to maintaining balance in nature.

But animals aren’t the only ones in danger. One sting from a tiger mosquito or an Asian hornet, and you’re done for. Think about that the next time you hear something buzzing around your head.

Ultimately, pests become about politics. Members of the EU have already thrown millions of dollars at the problem. They’ve spent substantial resources, too. But until the issue is approached from a unified stance, and not left up to individual nations, then the pest infestation will continue to spread, until one day, the entire planet’s consumed.
Don’t believe me? Think I’m exaggerating?

Consider the Japanese knotweed, which is literally strangling buildings to the point of causing structural damage. Or how about the giant hogweed in Belgium, which, even if the country is successful in eradicating it, may simply cross the border, and start ravaging French crops! (If only traveling was so easy…)

"Combating invasive alien species is a prime example of an area where Europe is better when working together,” says Janez Potočnik, Environment Commissioner of the EU. “The legislation we are proposing will help protect biodiversity and is targeted to allow us to focus on the most serious threats. This will help improve the effectiveness of national measures and achieve results in the most cost-effective way. I look forward to working with Member States and the European Parliament to put this legislation in place and step up our efforts to tackle this serious problem right across Europe."

Potočnik is calling for a ban on select species, meaning it will be illegal to “import, buy, use, release or sell them” anywhere within the EU. The legislation encourages a transition towards a more preventive approach to pests and global warming, which should increase recognition efficiency and lower damage costs.

What’s the best way to prevent global warming? Eliminate carbon emissions. How can we do that? End our dependence on dirty fossil fuels like coal. How can we do that?

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