Globalisation offers numerous benefits, but also brings challenges. Intensive transport and multiple logistical movements increase the risk of spreading diseases and exotic animal and plant species. In agricultural and rural areas, this leads to the introduction of invasive species that, often without effective prevention or control, proliferate greatly and threaten native biodiversity. In agricultural areas, knolcyperus in particular is a major problem, while in open spaces Japanese knotweed is also common. With this project, we aim to find innovative solutions to tackle these weeds effectively.
Despite their major negative impact, there is still a lot of ignorance about invasive exotic species. The distinction between harmless plants and species in urgent need of control is often unclear. For instance, tuber cyperus regularly occurs in gardens and public authorities are struggling with heavy infestations of road verges after road works.
A primary goal of this project is therefore to provide essential knowledge to the target groups involved.
Private individuals
Citizens are not always aware of the issues, but often commit to biodiversity (e.g. flower strips, “don't mow May”). With more knowledge, even on a small scale, they can help limit the spread of invasive exotic species.Green services, horticulture and nature managers
Key site actors who, with targeted knowledge, can prevent spread and control exotic species within policy. The focus is on both species, with Japanese knotweed a priority.Farmers
Tuber cyperus in particular is a growing problem: it damages yield and feed value. Without effective control, it threatens to seriously undermine the Flemish potato and vegetable sector and the diversity of the agricultural landscape, with further evolution towards grass and maize monoculture as a risk.
In case of infection, control is very difficult and requires cooperation from all stakeholders. The approach differs per stakeholder (manual/machinery, with or without resources). As a second project objective, we test innovative techniques on validation plots and share up-to-date, correct information within the rapidly evolving legislative framework.
Omdat bestaande middelen onvoldoende zijn, zal er ook gekeken worden naar de werking van stomen op knolcyperus. Temperatuur blijkt de enige parameter die consequent effectief is tegen onkruiden. De installatie moet grootschalige grondbehandeling mogelijk maken, bijdragen aan ‘biologische certificering’ en het gebruik van gegarandeerd onkruidvrije aanvulgrond stimuleren, zodat nieuwe verspreiding, bv. na wegenwerken, wordt voorkomen.
