Democratic Socialist Republic of Sri Lanka

The National Policy on Invasive

Alien Species (IAS) in Sri Lanka,
Strategies and Action Plan

Ministry of Mahaweli Development & Environment

June - 2016
 The National Policy on Invasive
Alien Species (IAS) and
the Strategies & Action Plan
for it's Implemention in Sri Lanka

Biodiversity Secretariat
Ministry of Mahaweli Development & Environment
Sampathpaya, Battharamulla
June - 2016
 The National Policy on Invasive Alien Species (IAS)
and the Strategies & Action Plan for it's
Implemention in Sri Lanka

Publish by : Biodiversity Secretariat

Ministry of Mahaweli Development & Environment
Sampathpaya, Battharamulla

ISBN 978-955-8395-03-5

Printed by : Deepani Priners/Publisher

464, Highlevel Road, Gangodawila, Nugegoda.
Tel: 011 - 2852530

The National Policy on Invasive Alien Species in Sri Lanka and

the Strategies & Action Plan for it's Implemention has been
approved by the cabinet of Ministers on 30th March 2016.
(Cabinet dicision No. wum$16$0426$704$013-07th April 2016)
 The National Invasive Alien Species (IAS)
Policy of Sri Lanka
1). Introduction and Background
The importance of Invasive Alien Species (IAS) is recognized as a major threat
to the natural (terrestrial, aquatic and marine) and agro-ecosystems of Sri Lanka
affecting its biological diversity and food security. Open economic policies that
have facilitated international trade and travel and the free movement of international
aid followed by major disasters has seen the incidences of IAS becoming more
frequent, accidentally or deliberately over the past decades.

The threats of IAS cannot be treated in isolation, but are part of a complex set of
pressures and drivers of biodiversity loss and environmental impact. Since, the
social, political and economic drivers are growing in both scale and scope, the
responses to IAS need to go beyond short-term crisis-focused approaches but be
at multiple levels through an integrated approach.

While being a signatory to international conventions such as Convention on

Biological Diversity (CBD), International Plant Protection Convention (IPPC),
and Convention for the Prevention of Pollution from Ships (MARPOL 73/78), Sri
Lanka have enacted number of ordinances/acts to impose laws governing import of
fauna and flora to the country. The direct legal instruments available in Sri Lanka
to tackle the issues related to IAS are the Water Hyacinth Ordinance No. 4 of 1909,
Fauna and Flora Protection Ordinance No. 2 of 1937 (as amended), Fisheries and
Aquatic Resources Act, No. 02 of 1996 (as amended), Plant Protection Act No.
35 of 1999, Prevention of Mosquito Breeding Act No. 11 of 2007 and Marine
Pollution Prevention Act No. 35 of 2008.

However, considering the importance of the development and implementation of

an effective legal instrument to support the country’s efforts to manage IAS, the
Cabinet of Ministers, on 15th January 2009 granted approval to develop a new act
to prevent entry of and control of IAS.

Keeping in line with the article 27 subsection 14 of Sri Lanka’s constitution “The
State shall protect, preserve and improve the environment for the benefit of the
community”, relevant international conventions and as highlighted “need to
address IAS issues as priority interventions” in the National Action Plan for the
Haritha Lanka Program, the “National Invasive Alien Species (IAS) Policy” is
prepared aiming at preventing the introduction and spread of IAS and their control.
This policy is intended to provide a base for IAS Act and consistent guidance
to the Government, in particular to the Ministry responsible for the subject of
Environment, and all other stakeholders.

1
2). The need for a National Invasive Alien Species Policy
(NIASP)
Despite the fact that IAS issues are being accepted as a concern to be dealt with
a sense of urgency, the sectoral policy and regulatory framework for minimizing
the risks posed by IAS in Sri Lanka still remain under-developed and not well
coordinated. Although many institutions hold a stake in IAS related activities
namely, Ministries of Environment, Agriculture, Irrigation, etc., these institutions
to-date have not harmonized their policies to account for the effects of IAS.

Therefore, a national policy is required as the guiding light that shows the path to
achieve the vision and the long-term goals envisaged by state and other stakeholder
organizations in minimizing the risks of IAS across sectors in Sri Lanka.

3). Scope of the National Invasive Species Policy

• All actions taken or authorized by the Government of Sri Lanka should consider
and minimize, to the extent possible, the detrimental effects caused by the
introduction of non-native invasive species.

• This policy does not imply that the government of Sri Lanka will not permit
introduction of all exotic species to the country. However, the government of
Sri Lanka recognizes that all alien species are potentially invasive, caution is
required until a formal risk assessment is performed.

• The introduction of biological measures to control Invasive Alien Species or

scientific studies on Invasive Alien Species approved by the Government of Sri
Lanka is not covered by this policy.

• This policy supplements any other policy and program guidelines that may
exist.

The National
Invasive Alien Species (IAS) Policy
Vision
Sri Lanka is free from risks posed by Invasive Alien Species

Mission Statement
A comprehensive, coordinated, and efficient system is established with necessary
legal environment to protect aquatic, marine and terrestrial ecosystems including
agricultural and other man made landscapes and native biodiversity of Sri Lanka
from risks associated with IAS.
2
Objectives
The main objective is to establish a national policy, which leads to formulate an
appropriate legal framework and implemented through an effective and efficient
institutional coordination mechanism that prevents, detects, responds to, and
manage the risks of IAS to the economy, environment, and society. The policy
will address the following specific objectives;

1. To minimize the risks of IAS on the biodiversity, ecosystems, economy and

society thus promoting the sustainable economic development

2. To update all the stake holders on the national position and priorities and
promote their participation in dealing with IAS related issues

3. To contribute to global efforts to control IAS through nationwide operations

As the base for the formulation of policy statements, main trust areas have been
identified considering the following facts;

- IAS as a factor affecting sustainable development and poverty eradication.

- The potential impact of IAS on the biodiversity is irreversible and urgent policy
intervention is vital.

- The need for cooperation at all levels of government, private sector and non-
governmental organizations within Sri Lanka, regional and international arena
is essential to manage the risks posed by IAS.

- Scientifically valid, best available knowledge and public-private partnership is

a primary need for effective management of IAS using an ecosystem approach.

Thrust Areas
The policy is organized under four equally essential thrust areas that forms the
foundation for the management of IAS:

1. Prevention of intentional and unintentional introductions of IAS

2. Early Detection and Rapid response to the new invaders (pre-entry/post-entry)

3. Containment, Control and Eradication of established and spreading invaders

4. Restoring of Ecosystems degraded due to impacts of IAS

3
The Policy Statement
The policy statements mainly focuses on five different sections.

1. General and Cross-cutting Policies

The statements that are overlapping or cross-cutting depending on the national
needs and the nature and relative importance of the invasion is presented under
general section.

Key Policy Statements

1.1. All citizens who concern are made aware of IAS and their adverse effects.

1.2. Recognize the need for a multi-stakeholder driven process for effective
management of IAS through prevention, early detection and rapid response
and ecosystem restoration

1.3. Recognize the need for establishing a knowledge base and data sharing
mechanism to support IAS management.

1.4. Recognize the need for capacity development with international cooperation
and resource mobilization.

1.5. Recognize the need to promote research to support effective IAS management.

1.6. Recognize the need to be consistent with national, regional and international
initiatives.

2. Policy on Prevention
Prevention of introduction is generally the far more environmentally desirable and
most cost effective approach to avoid significant environmental, economic and
social costs.

Key Policy Statement

2.1 An effective risk assessment protocol is in place for prevention of entry of IAS

3. Policy on Early Detection and Rapid Response

Once an IAS has entered the country, early detection and rapid eradication is
the most cost effective and environmentally favourable way of preventing its
establishment and wider spread. It is essential to have integrated rapid response
networks and contingency plans for eradication of such species immediately upon
detection.

4
Key Policy Statement
3.1. Recognize the need to establish a mechanism for surveillance, early detection
and rapid response

4. Policy on Containment, Control and Eradication

If the IAS becomes established, appropriate management responses (containment,
control and eradication) are needed based on the species priority at the relevant
geographical scale. Risk analysis, economic analysis, and other tools should be
used to select the most appropriate and cost-effective mitigation measures. An
integrated approach is the most effective way to manage IAS within Sri Lanka.

Key Policy Statements

4.1 Recognize the need to establish a sustained mechanism to identify and
prioritize IAS

4.2 Recognize the need to take an integrated approach for containment and
management of IAS

4.3 Recognize the need to develop and implement management plans for
eradication of priority IAS

5. Policy on Restoration of Biodiversity, Habitats and

Ecosystems
Each invasion is unique, therefore specific restoration programs are required to
be designed at the appropriate level. Restoring degraded areas to their proper
ecological function would prevent infestations from IAS or to prevent re-
occurrence after their removal. Therefore, adoption of restoration concepts to
manage the impacts of IAS on an ecosystem is a critical component of a fully
functional invasive species control program.

Key Policy Statements

5.1 Recognize the need to take the ecosystem and participatory approach in
managing IAS

5.2 Recognize development projects that increase vulnerability of natural

ecosystems to IAS undertake restoration as a mandatory requirement

5
 Strategies for Implementation of
National Invasive Alien Species (IAS)
Policy in Sri Lanka
 Strategies for Implementation of
National Invasive Alien Species (IAS) Policy in Sri Lanka
Introduction
The increasing economic and environmental losses caused by non-native invasive
species amplify the value of identifying and implementing optimal management
options to prevent, detect, and control invasive alien species (IAS).

Strategies that are suitable for the implementation of National Invasive Alien
Species Policy in Sri Lanka have been developed through a dynamic consultative
process with wider participation of stakeholders. These strategies are intended
to provide consistent guidance to the Ministry responsible for the subject of
Environment (ME), which is the focal point for implementation of the CBD in Sri
Lanka, and the stakeholder institutions in line Ministries, non-governmental and
private sector organizations, and the citizens of Sri Lanka to develop their own
action plans for any activities that could introduce or cause the spread of invasive
alien species in the country.

Strategies to be followed to fulfill each of the policy statements are appended

below.

1. General and Cross- cutting policies

1.1. All citizens who concern are made aware of Invasive Alien Species
(IAS) and their adverse effects
Strategies 1.1.1 Public Awareness and sensitization programmes on entry
pathways, invasiveness, and environmental impacts on
IAS are promoted to produce a responsible and vigilant
citizen.

1.1.2 Specific awareness programs on IAS for key stakeholders

will be conducted island wide.

1.2 Recognize the need for a multi-stakeholder driven process for effective
management of IAS through prevention, early detection and rapid
response and ecosystem based restoration
Strategies 1.2.1 Establishment of the National Focal Point on IAS at the
Biodiversity Secretariat of the Ministry responsible for
subject of Environment that facilitates a process of
monitoring IAS entry and control at national level.

7
Strategies 1.2.2 An organized risk assessment process and an effective
regulatory mechanism will be established preventing entry
and spread of IAS

1.2.3 Promote a national level campaign for IAS control

1.2.4 Set up an effective, properly coordinated, institutional

mechanism to prevent entry, early detection, rapid response
and ecosystem based management of IAS.

1.3 Need to Establish a knowledge base and data sharing mechanism to

support IAS management

Strategies 1.2.1 Support development and maintenance of National IAS

database containing information on Identification, Risk
assessment, Invasiveness, Importance and Cost effective
Management practices

1.2.2 Establish a national data base incorporating information

available in regional and global level and make accessible
to the general public through relevant authorities and share
the available information/ data

1.4 Recognize the need for capacity development with international

cooperation and resource mobilization
Strategies 1.2.1 Human resources of stakeholder organizations are
developed with required training/ capacity building

1.2.2 Advocate stakeholder institutions to obtain necessary

financial and other resources for IAS control from
international and local donor agencies and national budget.

1.2.3 Mobilize financial and other resources for human and

infrastructure development of stakeholder institutions

1.2.4 Cooperate with external organizations/ governments in

training and capacity building on IAS

1.5 Need for Research on IAS to support effective management is recognized

Strategies 1.2.1 Strengthen the financial and logistical support for research
and development of techniques for IAS control and
management

8
 1.2.2 Establish a mechanism including national scientific forum
for regular dissemination of research findings to encourage
better management practices.

1.2.3 Promote research on IAS based on identified information

gaps.

1.6 Recognizes the need to be in consistent with national, regional and

global initiatives
Strategies 1.2.1 Cooperate with other regional and global organizations
with their initiatives for management of IAS.

1.2.2 Support national institutions that dealt with IAS entry,

detection and Control.

2. Policy on Prevention
2.1. An effective risk Assessment protocol is in place for prevention of
entry of IAS
Strategies 2.1.1 Establishment of updated risk assessment protocol at all
entry pathways

2.1.2 Support capacity building and acquisition of physical

resources required for stakeholder institutions for IAS
identification and risk assessment

2.1.3 Ensure pathway analysis is conducted and risk assessment

are performed for all the pathways of introduction of IAS

2.1.4 improve the capacity of relevant stakeholder institutions for

enforcement of IAS regulations and policies at entry points

2.1.5 Support development plans and their implementation

for managing high-risk entry pathways by giving due
consideration to risk imposed by IAS.

3. Policy on Early Detection and Rapid Response

3.1. Recognize the need to establish a mechanism for surveillance, early
detection and rapid response
Strategies 3.1.1 Ensure development of education and outreach action plan
targeting general public and key stakeholders supporting
identification ,early detection and rapidly response on IAS
9
 3.1.2 Facilitate the establishment of a national level ‘core team of
experts’ supported by research, and appropriate diagnostic
tools and international cooperation for taxonomic
identification of IAS

3.1.3 Ensure that the core team of experts continue to develop

diagnostic tools and protocols to identify IAS aiming
sustenance of the system.

3.1.4 Strengthen the surveillance activities among stakeholders

through a coordinated monitoring in geographic areas at
high risk of invasions.

3.1.5 Promote the development of networks for rapid decision

making, communication and implementation of emergency
response plans.

3.1.6 Use of mass media on IAS early warning and awareness

4. Policy on Containment, Control and Eradication

4.1. Recognize the need to establish sustained mechanism to identify and
prioritize IAS.
Strategies 4.1.1 Facilitate to mobilize the members of core team of experts
for correct identification of IAS, based on the rapid
response.

4.1.2 Set standards for species identification include into the

protocol.

4.1.3 Support the team of experts by sharing research findings

and providing them with appropriate diagnostic tools.

4.1.4 Periodic update of the protocols and assessments undertaken

to prioritize IAS

4.2. Recognize the need to take an integrated approach for containment

and management of IAS
Strategies 4.2.1 Ensure identification of integrated management options for
IAS based on risk assessment and stakeholder consultations

4.2.2 Facilitate adoptive management of IAS through objective

scientific methodology and /tools

10
 4.2.3 Promote the management of IAS in priority sites considering
the environmental, economic, social and cultural impacts.

4.2.4 Update the management of IAS into common data base.

4.3 Recognize the need to develop and implement management plans for
eradication of priority IAS
Strategies 4.3.1 Prepare and implement integrated management plans based
on ecosystem approach for IAS control

4.3.2 Strengthen public-private-community partnerships for IAS

management and eradication

4.3.4 Develop a mechanism to integrate research findings in to

management plans

4.3.5 Incorporate IAS management into relevant stakeholder’s

management plan.

5. Policy on Restoration of Biodiversity, Habitats and

Ecosystems
5.1. Recognize the need to take the ecosystem approach in managing IAS
Strategies 5.1.1 Ecosystem based, appropriate restoration plans are
developed and implemented for the affected areas

5.1.2 Ensure relevant authorities include restoration plan and

monitoring mechanisms to their management plans.

5.1.3 Participation of the stakeholders as well as the affected

communities are obtained for the implementation of the
plans

5.2. Recognize development project that increases vulnerability of natural

ecosystems to IAS undertake restoration as a mandatory requirement
Strategies 5.2.1 Restoration of natural ecosystem of the areas taken up
for development projects will be consider as mandatory
practice on project approval

5.2.2 Ensure IAS management included into EIA process.

11
The Strategies and Action Plan to
Implement the National Policy on
Invasive Alien Species
 The Strategies and Action Plan to Implement the
National Policy on Invasive Alien Species

1. General and Cross cutting policies;

1.1. All citizens are made aware of Invasive Alien Species (IAS) and their
adverse effects
Strategy Public Awareness and sensitization programmes on entry
1.1.1 pathways, invasiveness and environmental impacts on IAS are
promoted to produce a responsible and vigilant citizen.
Actions:
I. Conduct awareness needs assessment on IAS for general
public
II. Select appropriate modes of conducting awareness campaigns
on IAS according to different public groups
III. Design and prepare awareness and promotional materials on
IAS based on the needs assessment
IV. Identification of organizations capable of conducting
awareness building programmes on IAS
V. Conduct regular media briefings, publish newspaper articles
and newsletters to create awareness among general public on
IAS
VI. Conducting awareness campaigns using mass-media
Strategy Specific awareness programs on IAS for key stakeholders will
1.1.2 be conducted island wide
Actions:
I. Conduct a “capacity and awareness needs assessment” of
relevant stakeholder organizations on detection, identification
and control of IAS
II. Design and prepare training manuals and materials and other
documents based on the needs assessment on identification
and detection of IAS
III. Conduct training programs to build technical and physical
capacity of border control officers on identification and
detection of IAS

13
 IV. Conduct training programs to build technical and physical
capacity of stakeholder organizations on detection,
identification and control of IAS

1.2. Recognize the need for a multi-stakeholder driven process for effective
management of IAS through prevention, early detection and rapid
response and ecosystem based restoration
Strategy Establishment of the National Focal Point on IAS at the
1.2.1 Biodiversity Secretariat of the Ministry of Mahaweli
Development and Environment that facilitates a process of
monitoring IAS entry and control at national level
Actions:
I. Establish the national focal point for coordinating detection,
identification and control of IAS
II. Enforce the provisions of IAS control Act and its regulations
through appropriate stakeholders.
III. Develop a monitoring framework to measure the effectiveness
of the awareness, entry and control programmes on IAS at
national level
IV. Conduct regular monitoring programs on the effectiveness of
the awareness campaign, prevention of entry and control of
IAS
Strategy An organized risk assessment process and an effective
1.2.2 regulatory mechanism will be established preventing entry
and spread of IAS
Actions:
I. Formulate and enact the IAS control Act and regulations.
II. Establish mechanisms/regulations especially focusing on the
main pathways of entry identified through pathways-analysis
to prevent entry of IAS to Sri Lanka
III. Develop, implement and regularly update pre- and post-entry
risk assessment protocols for IAS
IV. Develop a monitoring framework to measure the effectiveness
of the risk assessment protocols on IAS
V. Conduct regular monitoring programs on the effectiveness of
the risk assessment protocols on IAS

14
Strategy Promote a national level campaign for IAS control
1.2.3 Actions:
I. Identify resource groups and target groups and conduct
national campaigns on IAS control

Strategy Set up an effective, properly coordinated, institutional

1.2.4 mechanism to prevent entry, early detection, rapid response
and ecosystem based management of IAS.
Actions:
I. Develop an effective and integrated institutional coordinating
mechanism link through national focal point for detection,
identification and control of IAS at national level
II. Develop guidelines specifically to prevent introduction of
IAS, for importers of commodities to Sri Lanka
III. Develop an activity plan on regional trade preventing entry of
IAS to Sri Lanka keeping in line with the clauses identified in
the CBD
IV. Establish an interlinked e-system to share information on
import licensing, notification of entry etc., among border
control agencies

1.3. Need to Establish a knowledge base and data sharing mechanism to

support IAS management
Strategy Support establishment and maintenance of the National
1.3.1 IAS database containing information on Identification, Risk
assessment, Invasiveness, Importance and cost effective
management practices
Actions:
I. Formulate and mandate a National IAS information
management Committee
II. Identify hosting and maintenance arrangement for the National
IAS Database
III. Develop an interactive National IAS database through broad-
based stakeholder consultation.
IV. Establish an IAS data entry web portal with an appropriate
data entry verification procedure and broad-based stakeholder
consultation
V. Periodically review and update of the National IAS Database

15
 VI. Conduct a campaign to create awareness among general public
on the availability and utility of the National IAS Database
Strategy Incorporate information on IAS available in regional and
1.3.2 global databases in to the national data base.
Actions:
I. Identify, list and publish in the public domain, the IAS of
global, regional and national significance, potential IAS and
black lists of IAS
II. Establish a mechanism to periodically update the lists of IAS
of global and regional significance, potential IAS and black
lists of IAS
III. Identify the possible countries of origin of IAS based on the
pathways-analysis

1.4. Recognize the need for capacity development with international

cooperation and resource mobilization
Strategy Human resources of stakeholder organizations are developed
1.4.1 with required training/ capacity building.
Actions:
I. Conduct capacity need assessment of relevant stakeholder
organization on detection, identification and control of IAS.
II. Design and prepare training manuals and materials and
other documents based on the need assessment on detection,
identification and control of IAS.
III. Conduct training programmes to build technical and
physical capacity of stakeholder organization on detection,
identification and control of IAS.
Strategy Advocate stakeholder institutions to obtain necessary financial
1.4.2 and other resources for IAS control from govt. budget
Actions:
I. Identify regular funding for IAS detection and rapid response
in the national and provincial budget
II. Establish a fund disbursement mechanism for rapid response
to identified IAS

16
Strategy Mobilize financial and other resources for human and
1.4.3 infrastructure development of stakeholder institutions.
Actions:
I. Allocate adequate financial resources to stakeholders for
training on IAS management.
II. Provide sufficient staff and other physical resources for IAS
control in stakeholder institutions.
Strategy Cooperate with external organizations/ governments in
1.4.4 training and capacity building on IAS
Actions:
I. Maintain contacts with other countries/ external organizations
and seek their support for training.
II. Facilitate training expert visits by other countries/organizations
to Sri Lanka on IAS.

1.5. Need for Research on IAS to support effective management is recognized

Strategy Strengthen the financial and logistical support for research and
1.5.1 development of techniques for IAS control and management
Actions:
I. Prepare a national research agenda for IAS control through a
research gap identification process.
II. Develop a mechanism for continuous financial and logistical
support for identified research
Strategy Establish a mechanism including national scientific forum for
1.5.2 regular dissemination of research findings to encourage better
management practices.
Actions:
I. Mainstream recommendations of the outcome and outputs of
the contracted research on IAS control.
II. Device a mechanism to integrate the outcome of research into
IAS management plans.
Strategy Promote research on IAS, based on identified information gaps
1.5.3 Actions:
I. Identify priority research projects and co-funding opportunities
based on the national research agenda
17
 II. Award contracted research to stakeholder organizations/
personnel for IAS control

1.6 Recognizes the need to be in consistent with national, regional and

international initiatives
Strategy Cooperate with other regional and global organizations with
1.6.1 their initiatives for management of IAS
Actions:
I. Update the knowledge of staff attached to the IAS cell at focal
point and staff at entry points on global and regional initiatives
of IAS.
II. Take appropriate actions by focal point and border control
staff as directed by global and regional initiatives.
Strategy Support national institutions that dealt with IAS entry,
1.6.2 detection and control
Actions:
I. Review the sectoral policies and update to include IAS
inspection, detection, identification and control.
II. Update the knowledge of relevant national institutions on
international initiatives for control of IAS.

2. Policy on Prevention
2.1. An effective risk Assessment protocol is in place for prevention of
entry of IAS
Strategy Establishment of updated risk assessment protocol at all entry
2.1.1 pathways.
Actions:
I. Develop, implement and regularly update pre-entry and post
risk assessment protocols for IAS
II. Develop an effective mechanism for detection and prevention
of entry of IAS at entry points
III. Identify, assess, list and publish in the public domain, the IAS
of national significance and potential IAS.
IV. Develop a mechanism to periodically update the national and
potential list of IAS.

18
Strategy Support capacity building and acquisition of physical resources
2.1.2 required for stakeholder institutions for IAS identification and
risk assessment
Actions:
I. Conduct a “capacity needs assessment” of border control
officers on identification and detection of IAS
II. Provide appropriate materials to identify IAS and direct access
to the IAS data base.
III. Assist acquisition of required physical resources to the
standard institutions.
IV. Provide suitable training for key officers involved in detection
of IAS.
Strategy Ensure pathway analysis is conducted and risk assessment are
2.1.3 performed for all the pathways of introduction of IAS
Actions:
I. Establish mechanisms/regulations especially focusing on the
main pathways of entry identified through pathways-analysis
to prevent entry of IAS to Sri Lanka
II. Develop an activity plan on international trade preventing
entry of IAS to Sri Lanka keeping in line with the clauses
identified in the CBD and other relevant international treaties
and agreements
III. Develop guidelines specifically to prevent introduction of
IAS, for importers of commodities to Sri Lanka

Strategy Improve the capacity of relevant stakeholder institutions for

2.1.4 enforcement of IAS regulations and policies at entry points
Actions:
I. Prepare regulations for effective implementation of the IAS
Control Act
II. Train relevant stakeholder institutions for enforcement of IAS
regulations and other related regulations.

Strategy Support institutional development plans and their

2.1.5 implementation for managing high-risk entry pathways by
giving due consideration to risk imposed by IAS.

19
 Actions:
I. Establish mechanisms/regulations especially focusing on the
main pathways of entry identified through pathways-analysis
to prevent entry of IAS to Sri Lanka
II. Identify the possible countries of origin of IAS based on the
pathways-analysis

3. Policy on Early Detection and Rapid Response

3.1. Recognize the need to establish a mechanism for surveillance, early
detection and rapid response
Strategy Ensure development of education and outreach action plan
3.1.1 targeting general public and key stakeholders supporting
identification, early detection and rapid response on IAS
Actions :
I. Identify, list and publish in the public domain, the IAS of
national significance, potential IAS and black lists of IAS
II. Conduct a “capacity needs assessment” of relevant stakeholder
organizations on detection and identification of IAS
III. Conduct training programs to build technical and physical
capacity of stakeholder organizations on detection and
identification of IAS
IV. Establish a communication link to the grass-root level
organizations to implement the emergency response plan for
identified IAS
V. Design and prepare training manuals and awareness materials
for public/stakeholders and publish newspaper articles and
newsletters on IAS.
Strategy Facilitate the establishment of a national level ‘core team of
3.1.2 experts’ supported by research, and appropriate diagnostic tools
and international cooperation for taxonomic identification of IAS
Actions :
I. Establish and mandate a National Invasive Species Specialist
Group (NISSG) for advising on all of aspects of IAS
II. Establish a national “core team of experts” on taxonomic
identification of IAS
III. Mainstream recommendations of the outcome/outputs of the
contracted research on IAS control
20
Strategy Ensure that the core team of experts continue to develop
3.1.3 diagnostic tools and protocols to identify IAS aiming
sustenance of the system.
Actions :
I. Develop suitable system and monitor framework to measure
the effectiveness of the risk assessment protocols on IAS
II. Establish a communication channel to link the focal point
with the “core team of experts
Strategy Strengthen the surveillance activities among stakeholders
3.1.4 through a coordinated monitoring in geographic areas at high
risk of invasions
Actions :
I. Establish IAS cell in main stakeholder institutions and in each
province.
II. Establish a coordinated monitoring network for continued
surveillance of high risk areas for IAS
III. Establish a reporting channel between the focal point and the
surveillance network.
Strategy Promote the development of networks for rapid decision making,
3.1.5 communication and implementation of emergency response plans
Actions :
I. Establish networks representing relevant stakeholder groups
at provincial levels for formulating emergency response plans,
in consultation with the focal point on identified IAS
II. Design and prepare a reporting mechanism for early response
to IAS
III. Establish a communication link to the grass-root level
organizations to implement the emergency response plan for
identified IAS

Strategy Use of mass media on IAS early warning and awareness

3.1.6 Actions :
I. Conduct regular media briefings, publish newspaper articles
and newsletters to create awareness among stakeholders on
IAS
II. Prepare promotional materials on identification and control of
IAS at national level.
III. Conduct national campaigns on IAS control.

21
4. Policy on Containment, Control and Eradication
4.1. Recognize the need to establish sustained mechanism to identify and
prioritize IAS.
Strategy Facilitate to mobilize the members of core team of experts for
4.1.1 correct identification of IAS, based on the rapid response.
Actions:
I. Provide logistical support to the “core team of experts” for
taxonomic identification of IAS.
II. Provide the members of “Core Team” with necessary tools
and field equipment to identify IAS.
Strategy Support the team of experts by sharing research findings and
4.1.2 providing them with appropriate diagnostic tools.
Actions:
I. Share the national research agenda for IAS control prepared
based on the research gap identification process.
II. Mainstream recommendations of the research carried out on
IAS control.
III. Device a mechanism to integrate the outcome of research into
IAS management plans.
Strategy Periodic update of the protocols and assessments undertaken
4.1.3 to prioritize IAS.
Actions:
I. Undertake regular update of pre- and post – entry risk
assessment protocol for IAS.
II. Periodically update (once in 3-4 years) the list of IAS of
national significance and potential IAS.
III. Conduct regular monitoring programmes on the effectiveness
of the risk assessment protocol on IAS.
Strategy Set standards for species identification include into the protocol
4.1.4 Actions:
I. Initial identification of spp. Using standard/ recognized
taxonomic literature.
II. Confirmation of species in consultation with National
Herbarium of Sri Lanka or Natural History Museum ( Local/
Foreign)

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4.2 Recognize the need to take an integrated approach for containment
and management of IAS
Strategy Ensure identification of integrated management options for
4.2.1 IAS based on risk assessment and stakeholder consultations
Actions:
I. Select vulnerable localities through properly designed
assessment procedure.
II. Map the priority IAS of national importance and vulnerable
localities.
III. Evaluate integrated management options for priority sites.
IV. Design and prepare adaptive management plans for priority
IAS and vulnerable localities with stakeholder participation.
Strategy Facilitate adoptive management of IAS through objective
4.2.2 scientific methodology and /tools
Actions:
I. Develop tools to measure environmental impact assessment,
socio- economic impact resource need and extended cost
benefit analysis for management of IAS.
II. Develop a decision making matrix for containment, control
and eradication of prioritized IAS.
III. Conduct pilot scale testing for the integrated management
options selected for IAS control
IV. Monitor the effectiveness of the management initiatives taken
V. Document and demonstrate site specific, cost effective and
best practices for management of prioritized IAS.
Strategy Promote the management of IAS in priority sites considering
4.2.3 the environmental, economic, social and cultural impacts
Actions:
I. Develop guidelines to select priority sites for IAS management
II. Devise and implement long term integrated management
programmes for priority IAS in priority IAS sites based
on pilot scale testing, through private public community
partnership.
III. Develop monitoring framework for assessing the success of
IAS management plans.

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Strategy Update the management of IAS into common data base.
4.2.4 Actions:
I. Upload the National list of invasive alien species to the data
base.
II. Publish the guidelines to select priority sites for IAS
management.
III. Upload the case studies on eco system based best practiced
integrated IAS management.

4.3 Recognize the need to develop and implement management plans for
eradication of priority IAS
Strategy Prepare and implement integrated management plans based
4.3.1 on ecosystem approach for IAS control
Actions:
I. Apply ecosystem approach while preparing the integrated
IAS management plan.
II. Prepare guidelines on Eco-system approach in IAS
management.
III. Assess the environmental, social and economic impacts of
IAS in priority sites.
Strategy Strengthen public-private-community partnerships for IAS
4.3.2 management and eradication
Actions:
I. Identify potential partners for IAS control activities.
II. Communicate with and educate relevant partners on species
and site specific containment and eradication plan for IAS.
III. Enter into agreement / MOU with private/ community
organization in implementation of IAS management plan.
Strategy Develop a mechanism to integrate research findings in to
4.3.3 management plans
Actions:
I. Disseminate the research findings through the IAS cells
established in the stakeholder institutions and in the provinces.
II. Upload the research activities and recommendations into the
IAS data base.

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 III. Publish summarized research findings in the newsletters and
distribute to the ground level through stakeholder agencies.

Strategy Incorporate IAS management into relevant stakeholder’s

4.3.4 management plan.
Actions:
I. Incorporate IAS management in National Development Plan.
II. Institutionalize training on IAS through the in-service training
modules of stakeholder institutions.
III. Make management of IAS mandatory in preparation of site
specific management plan

5. Policy on Restoration of Biodiversity, Habitats and

Ecosystems
5.1. Recognize the need to take the ecosystem approach in managing IAS
Strategy Ecosystem based, appropriate restoration plans are developed
5.1.1 and implemented for the affected areas
Actions:
I. Review the best practices on eco- systems based restoration
activities practiced regionally and globally.
II. Develop best practice guidelines for restoration of eco-
systems affected by IAS to create conditions conductive to
native biota.
III. Develop ecosystem restoration plan based on the guidelines
developed using suitable native species

Strategy Ensure relevant authorities include restoration plan and

5.1.2 monitoring mechanisms to their management plans.
Actions:
I. Include provisions in the IAS Act to incorporate the restoration
of ecosystem is mandatory in development projects/plans.
II. Monitor the restoration of the ecosystem back to the original
position, as a part of the monitoring plan of the EIA.

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Strategy Participation of the stakeholders as well as the affected
5.1.3 communities are obtained for the implementation of the plans
Actions:
I. Obtain the direct involvement of stakeholders and participation
of affected community from planning stage.
II. Assign responsibilities of stakeholders and community in
implementation of restoration plans.

5.2. Recognize development project that increases vulnerability of natural

ecosystems to IAS undertake restoration as a mandatory requirement
Strategy Restoration of natural ecosystem of the areas taken up for
5.2.1 development projects will be consider as mandatory practice
on project approval
Actions:
I. Include the provisions of the IAS Act on “restoration of
ecosystems” as part of EIA process.
Strategy Restoration of natural ecosystem of the areas taken up for
5.2.2 development projects will be consider as mandatory practice
on project approval
Actions:
I. Implement long term restoration plans for ecosystem affected
by development projects.
Strategy Restoration of natural ecosystem of the areas taken up for
5.2.2 development projects will be consider as mandatory practice
on project approval
Actions:
I. Implement long term restoration plans for ecosystem affected
by development projects.

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