RINSE

Within the 2007-2013 Interreg 2 Seas cross-border programme, the RINSE project aimed to reduce the number of non-native species in the programme area. The project, involving British, French, Belgian and Dutch partners, was implemented in 2012-2014, but its results and legacy (see SEFINS project) can still be seen today.

The intervention initiated by the project is in line with the EU strategy on non-native species and the CABI handbook on invasive species. As a result of the project, a unified database of alien species affecting the programme area was created. To compile this database, observations were made in the area, species that had already appeared and those that posed a potential threat were listed, field surveys were carried out and case studies were prepared. The work was supplemented by extensive mapping, during which endangered habitats were delineated for each species and the most sensitive (most exposed to the appearance of new species) core areas were identified. As a result of the research, species distribution models (SDMs) were created, which use heat maps to indicate areas where stricter regulations are needed to preserve the original biodiversity.

The SDMs were created in three steps. First, the types of alien species were identified, then their preferred habitats, distribution dynamics and the ecological damage they cause were compiled. Subsequently, based on consultations and scientific work, the species were ranked in order of importance, resulting in two lists: an alert list and a blacklist. The former included 79 species that pose a threat to the programme area but have not yet spread there, while the latter included 261 species that have already appeared in at least one of the partner countries. This was followed by modelling – for a total of 72 species from the two lists – to assess the areas where these organisms are likely to appear in the future.

The workshops provided an opportunity for experts to consult with each other, and 50 additional people were trained. In addition, field trips to introduce the project and public information presentations helped to raise awareness of the importance of managing alien species. This was complemented by other communication tools, such as the project website, a toolkit to support expert decision-making, and a mobile app for reporting alien species observed in the field.

Thanks to the project, a scientific guide and toolkit have been provided to prevent the spread of non-native species, which will assist not only farmers but also politicians in their decision-making. The project also had an impact on the general public, as it successfully raised awareness of the dangers posed by invasive species, drew attention to the importance of prevention, and increased the number of volunteers committed to the issue.