Wetlands Free of Invasive Species

An action plan to restore ecological integrity and strengthen the conservation of fragile ecosystems

What does it consist of?

The Balearic Government has successfully concluded a plan to control and remove invasive species in major wetlands on the islands. Funded by sustainable tourism tax, the plan has successfully protected these ecologically important natural areas by reducing threats to native flora and fauna.

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Data

PROJECT TITLE IN THE CALL
Controlling invasive species in the wetland areas of the Balearic Islands
LOCATION
Mallorca, Minorca, Ibiza, Formentera
Entity submitting the PROJECT
Govern de les Illes Balears
Entity that executes the project
Conselleria de Medi Ambient i Territori
Project code
ITS2017-071
Total project amount
332.210 €
ITS granted amount
332.210 €
Executed amount
332.210 €
Call year
2017
Execution status
Executed
Purpose
Environment
Budget execution
Executed: 100%
Last data request
21.05.2021

The project

Wetlands on the Balearic Islands are transitional ecosystems between terrestrial and aquatic environments, and are home to great biodiversity. However, this rich biodiversity is vulnerable to threats such as invasive species, which can alter biological communities, modify the landscape and even cause financial or health-related damage in affected areas.

The plan was devised as a comprehensive response applied to major wetlands in Mallorca, Menorca, Ibiza and Formentera. Its main objective was to significantly reduce and, where possible, completely eradicate the most problematic invasive alien species, in order to restore ecological balance in these habitats and ensure their conservation.

The work also included outreach to raise public awareness of the vulnerability of these areas and the damage caused by invasive species. Outreach actions included informing the public of the results obtained and about the importance of wetlands as an environmental asset and tourism resource.

Completed in 2019 with an executed budget of more than €330,000, the plan has made it possible to protect biodiversity and improve the landscape at these nature spots. The action confirms the need for active management to protect these ecosystems from external strain, and to ensure residents and tourists are responsible when visiting them