The Environment and Resources Authority (ERA) developed eight sector-specific National Codes of Good Practice (CGP) to support the implementation of the National Strategy for Preventing and Mitigating the Impact of Invasive Alien Species (IAS) in the Maltese Islands. These guidelines offer advice to further enhance compliance with the existing national, regional and global/international policy requirements on IAS which are the main cause of degradation of biodiversity. These have been developed on the series of European Codes of Conduct adopted under the framework of the Council of Europe’s Bern Convention as well as a Public Consultation process in Malta.
The National Codes of Good Practice cover a number of activities, which are known to be directly linked to the introduction of IAS, namely:
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- horticulture,
- landscaping and forestation,
- gardens,
- pets/companion animals,
- zoos and aquaria,
- fishing,
- animal-aided hunting
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The recommendations included in the National Codes of Good Practice on IAS adopt the principle of self-regulation, aim to provide practical and concise guidance in establishing common standards of good practice and responsible attitudes and behaviors when using alien species in different industries.
The National Codes of Good Practice fulfil the requirements of Malta’s National Biodiversity Strategy and Action Plan (NBSAP, 2012-2020).
23 November 2020
