Implement a Scottish plan for INNS surveillance, prevention and control.
Objective 1: Accelerate ecosystem restoration and regeneration
Priority Action 3. Implement a Scottish plan for INNS surveillance, prevention and control
The Scottish Action Plan for Invasive Non-Native Species (INNS) 2026–2032 has now been published, setting out a national framework for surveillance, prevention, rapid response and long-term control. The plan includes targets such as reducing the rate of establishment of priority INNS by 50% by 2030 and strengthening coordination across sectors.
However, implementation is at an early stage. Existing control efforts, monitoring and biosecurity measures remain uneven, and the plan identifies significant gaps in capacity, coordination and long-term funding. While the strategic framework is now in place, further action will be needed to scale up delivery and achieve meaningful reductions in INNS spread.
INNS are a major driver of biodiversity loss across freshwater, terrestrial and marine ecosystems, contributing to habitat degradation and species decline. Evidence from IPBES and UK-level guidance (JNCC) highlights that early detection and rapid response are critical, as eradication success declines significantly once species become established. Delays therefore increase ecological damage and long-term management burden. While the INNS Action Plan is now in place, current delivery systems are not yet sufficiently integrated or resourced to consistently deliver prevention and rapid response at the scale required. The ecological evidence base for action is strong, but outcomes depend on whether implementation can move from fragmented delivery to a coordinated, prevention-led system.
NatureScot – Invasive Non-Native Species (INNS)
Scottish Action Plan for Invasive Non-Native Species 2026-2032
Develop and implement an INNS Action Plan, which will ensure pathways for the introduction and spread of INNS are managed to prevent or reduce their rate of introduction and establishment, and prevent further damage to ecosystems. The plan will include: i. reducing the rate of establishment of known or potential INNS by at least 50% by 2030 compared to 2000 level; and, ii. detection of priority…
Develop and implement a pipeline of strategic INNS projects to coordinate the control of priority INNS at scale with the aim of eliminating or reducing the impacts of INNS in at least 30% of priority sites.
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