The GuardIAS Project
GuardIAS is a three-year Horizon Europe project that started on January 1, 2025, which brings together a wide range of stakeholders and experts in Invasive Alien Species (IAS) management.
GuardIAS focuses on aquatic invasive alien species, those found in both freshwater and marine environments. The project aims to improve the detection and prevent the spread of invasive alien species in both marine and freshwater habitats using a range of novel methods — such as artificial intelligence (AI), environmental DNA, satellite imagery, underwater robotics and monitoring systems, and the development of an early alert system.
Information gained from the research will be used to increase public awareness regarding threats from invasive species spread, enhance public engagement, and enable decision makers to prioritise where and when to act.
Invasive alien species are animals and plants that are introduced accidentally or deliberately into a natural environment where they are not normally found, with serious negative consequences for their new environment.
GuardIAS aims to work against the threats posed by aquatic invasive alien species through using new techniques to target all stages of invasive alien species ‘invasion’.
The project’s comprehensive approach, encompassing science, technology, and community engagement, positions it as a key player in the EU’s efforts to preserve biodiversity and protect ecosystems from the growing threat of invasive species.
GuardIAS focuses on aquatic IAS, there is a project running parallel that focuses on terrestrial IAS (One Stop).
GuardIAS aims to work against the threats posed by aquatic invasive alien species through using new techniques to target all stages of invasive alien species ‘invasion’.
The project’s comprehensive approach, encompassing science, technology, and community engagement, positions it as a key player in the EU’s efforts to preserve biodiversity and protect ecosystems from the growing threat of invasive species.
GuardIAS focuses on aquatic IAS, there is a project running parallel that focuses on terrestrial IAS (One Stop).
Work Packages
There are 7 Work Packages (WP) focusing on different stages of invasive alien species ‘invasion’ in the GuardIAS project. Each Work Package is a distinct project area, but all are interlinked through GuardIAS as a whole.
Enhancing Protection
Work Package 1 will enhance prevention of invasive alien species introduction in European waters by deepening the understanding of current invasive alien species distribution...
IMPROVING EARLY DETECTION AND MONITORING
Work Package 2 will develop methods and new technology for cost-effective early detection and monitoring of invasive alien species. This will include...
Prioritising INVASIVE ALIEN SPECIES threats
Work Package 3 will develop ways for artificial intelligence to be used to identify and prioritise the major threats posed by aquatic invasive alien species on..
Management options for eradication and control
Work Package 4 will demonstrate and develop decision support tools for making informed, evidence-based management decisions...
Citizen and stakeholder engagement
Work Package 5 will use innovative approaches and tools to engage with stakeholders and the public, in particular STEAM approaches and citizen science initiatives...
Ensuring Impact
Work Package 6 will ensure effective external communication and dissemination of project outcomes from Work Packages 1-5 and insights from the case studies. This Work Package will maximise the exploitation...
Project management, coordination, and reporting
Work Package 7 will facilitate effective project management and coordination within the consortium and in compliance with ethical...
In partnership with
The European Alien Species Information Network (EASIN) facilitates the exploration of existing alien species information from a variety of distributed information sources through web tools and interoperable web services, compliant with internationally recognized standards.
OneBiosecurity Systems and Technology for People, Places and Pathways.
Our sister project OneSTOP supports the EU IAS Regulation by pioneering a joined-up approach to minimise the introduction, establishment, spread and impact of terrestrial invasive alien species
Our Partners
