Scientists warn invasive pests are taking a staggering toll on society

Abstract

Publication: Washington Post

A major U.N.-backed report warns that invasive species are causing over $423 billion in damage annually by disrupting ecosystems, endangering food and water supplies, spreading disease, and accelerating extinction. Written by over 80 experts and approved by 140+ nations, the report from the Intergovernmental Science-Policy Platform on Biodiversity and Ecosystem Services (IPBES) reveals that more than 3,500 harmful invasive species are fueling the global biodiversity crisis, contributing to 60% of recorded extinctions.

Species such as the black rat, brown tree snake, zebra mussel, and water hyacinth are devastating both land and aquatic ecosystems—destroying crops, clogging infrastructure, and endangering native wildlife. Some, like fire ants and malaria-carrying mosquitoes, are spreading further due to climate change. Even remote regions like Antarctica are now at risk, with invasive grasses threatening to transform its landscape.

The report stresses that most nations lack adequate laws to control invasions, and the current rate of 200 new species introductions per year will only worsen the problem. Prevention through border biosecurity and early detection is essential. Global commitments, like the goal to halve invasive species spread by 2030, are crucial to averting irreversible ecological and societal damage—and protecting human civilization itself.