Strategies for the Management of Aggressive Invasive Plant Species

Current control methods for invasive alien plants (IAPs) have acceptable short-term outcomes but have proven to be unfeasible or unaffordable in the long-term or for large invaded areas. For these reasons, there is an urgent need to develop sustainable approaches to control or restrict the spread of aggressive IAPs. The use of waste derived from IAP control actions could contribute to motivating the long-term management and preservation of local biodiversity while promoting some economic returns for stakeholders. However, this strategy may raise some concerns that should be carefully addressed before its implementation. In this article, we summarize the most common methods to control IAPs, explaining their viability and limitations. We also compile the potential applications of IAP residues and discuss the risks and opportunities associated with this strategy.

Automated summary

Current control methods for invasive alien plants (IAPs) are effective in the short-term but not feasible or affordable for long-term or large invaded areas. Therefore, sustainable approaches to control or restrict the spread of aggressive IAPs are urgently needed. The use of waste derived from IAP control actions can contribute to long-term management and preservation of local biodiversity while providing economic returns. However, concerns and risks associated with this strategy should be addressed before implementation.