Knowledge Hub information

Invasive alien species (IAS) represent one of the main direct drivers of biodiversity loss. To address this challenge, the Convention on Biological Diversity (CBD) established Target 6 under the Kunming–Montreal Global Biodiversity Framework (KM GBF), which aims to reduce the introduction of IAS by 50% and minimize their impact by 2030. The headline indicator for this target is indicator 6.1 Rate of invasive alien species establishment.

The Knowledge Hub on Target 6, hosted by the Joint Research Centre’s European Alien Species Information Network (EASIN) in collaboration with the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN), plays a key role in achieving this target. The EASIN initiative facilitates access to and sharing of information on IAS across Europe by providing standardized data, tools, and resources to monitor and assess their distribution and impacts. In doing so, it supports research, policy, and management, ensures alignment with EU and global IAS priorities, and fosters collaboration.

How the Knowledge Hub supports Target 6

It delivers tailored, demand-driven scientific and technical support to the 44 CBD Parties covered by the European subregional Technical and Scientific Cooperation support centre (TSCC) as they implement the KM GBF.

• Data access and tools: provides standardized, up-to-date IAS data, resources and tools for effective monitoring, reporting and management.

• Capacity building: offers tailored training, workshops and webinars to strengthen national and regional capacities in data collection, reporting and analysis.

• Technical and policy guidance: delivers evidence-based recommendations and case studies to improve IAS governance.

• Facilitates cooperation: promotes cross-border collaboration and knowledge sharing via expert networks, stakeholder engagement and the EASIN platform.

• Support for reporting and indicators: assists Parties in developing and using the Target 6 headline indicator, with tools and datasets for streamlined reporting and alignment with global standards.

• Dissemination and outreach: raises awareness and ensures equitable access to resources through TSCC communication channels, multilingual materials and customizable data packages.

Explore the available resources

• A comprehensive species catalogue: over 14,000 alien species recorded in Europe

• Tools and data: species search and mapping; reporting platforms (web and smartphone applications); visualization tools for exploring citizen science reports, dynamic maps, early detection notifications from Member States.

• Capacity-building resources: species factsheets and training materials; interactive learning platforms; awareness raising materials; codes of conduct and guidelines. 

For more information, please visit the EASIN website.