The Hidden Economic Cost of Invasive Alien Species: A Global and Indian Perspective
UPSC Relevance
Prelims: Environment and Ecology (Biodiversity, Invasive Alien Species, Conservation); International Relations (Key International Conventions).
Mains:
General Studies Paper 3: Conservation, environmental pollution and degradation; Indian Economy (Economic Costs); Disaster and disaster management (Biological Disasters).
Key Highlights from the News
Invasive alien species (IAS) have caused over $2.2 trillion in economic losses worldwide, a new study published in Nature Ecology & Evolution reveals.
This loss could be up to 16 times higher than previously estimated, the study says.
In India's case, the management costs for controlling such species are not accurately documented, leading to a significant "hidden cost."
Globally, invasive plants cause the most economic damage. Lantana camara (Kongi flower/Aripoo), widely found in India, is a prime example.
Globalisation, international trade, and travel are the main reasons for their spread from one place to another.
International agreements like the Convention on Biological Diversity (CBD) and the Ballast Water Management Convention aim to control these invasive species.
Experts state that accurate data collection, coordination among government agencies, and strategic funding are essential in this area for India.
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