Invasive species in the north may increase with a new climate

Invasive and alien species are one of the greatest threats to biodiversity. The species also causes major problems for agriculture and forestry as well as human and animal health. In Norrbotten, we have seven different species: mongoose dog, beeswax, Chinese wool hand crab, giant locust, drum locks, giant balsam and narrow-leaved water plague. In the clip above you can see what the species looks like and learn a little more about them.

Since northern Sweden - so far - has a climate in which many invasive and alien species do not enjoy so well, Norrbotten has been affected less than southern Sweden. But with the climate change, the county administrative board expects that they will now have to work harder to overcome the problems.

- The risk is very large as it concerns many species, so it all depends on how we organize the work and how we counteract them, says Lena Bondestad, biologist and administrator on the Norrbotten County Administrative Board.

In February, the Norrbotten County Administrative Board invites you to a grand meeting with all the municipalities of Norrbotten and Västerbotten. The reason is that you want to inform and talk about how to work to overcome the problem.

Last year, a new law was also introduced that means that landowners have the main responsibility for an invasive and alien species appearing on one's land. The Norrbotten County Administrative Board will also employ a person who will work on coordinating the work.