Beyond protocols: improving the reliability of expert-based risk analysis underpinning invasive species policies

• DOI: 10.1007/s10530-017-1434-0
• Publication Date: 2017-04-26T11:09:46Z
• Authors: Sonia Vanderhoeven; Etienne Branquart; Jim Casaer; Bram D’hondt; Philip E. Hulme; Assaf Shwartz; Diederik Strubbe; Anne Turbé; Hugo Verreycken; Tim Adriaens
• Keywords: Underpinning

Risk assessment tools for listing invasive alien species need to incorporate all available evidence and expertise. Beyond the wealth of protocols developed date, we argue that current way performing risk analysis has several shortcomings. In particular, lack data on ecological impacts, transparency repeatability assessments as well incorporation uncertainty should be explicitly considered. We recommend improved quality control through formalized peer review with clear feedback between assessors reviewers. Alternatively, a consensus building process can applied better capture opinions different experts, thereby maximizing evidential basis. Elaborating manageability is further needed fully answer requirements. Tackling issue urges handling acquired information exploration methods decision making biodiversity management. This crucial efficient conservation resource allocation uptake by stakeholders public.