REUFIS: Combating invasive plant species in forests and urban landscapes

Across Europe and Central Asia, the spread of invasive plant species is an escalating threat to biodiversity, ecosystem services, and sustainable land management. Forest ecosystems and urban green spaces are increasingly affected by aggressive non-native plant species, leading to ecological imbalance, loss of native biodiversity, increased fire risk, and elevated management costs.

The issue transcends national borders, necessitating a collaborative and regionally coordinated approach. Launched in 2017 by FAO, the Forest Invasive Species Network for Europe and Central Asia (REUFIS) offers a strategic platform to bring together forest and urban managers, policymakers, scientists, and civil society to share experiences and develop actionable strategies. 

The 2025 REUFIS meeting will help:

• assess the current state and impact of invasive plant species in forests and urban areas across Europe and Central Asia.
• exchange best practices, tools, and technologies for early detection, monitoring, and control.
•  promote integrated approaches that combine ecological, social, and regulatory measures.
•  identify policy gaps and foster intersectoral and transboundary cooperation.
•  support capacity-building and knowledge-sharing among REUFIS Members.