Invasive and introduced plants and animals
Subtitle: human perceptions, attitudes,  and approaches to management
By: [edited by] Ian D. Rotherham and Robert A. Lambert
Contributors: International Institute for Environment and Development
Publisher: Earthscan; Routledge
Published: 2011
Place of publication: Washington, DC
Language: eng
Number of pages: 392
ISBN-13: 9781849710718
Subjects: Introduced organisms; Case studies
Description: "This book addresses the broader context of invasive and exotic species in terms of the perceived threats and environmental concerns which surround alien species and ecological invasions. As a result of unprecedented scales of environmental change combined with rapid globalization, the mixing of cultures and diversity, and fears over biosecurity and bioterrorism, the known impacts of particular invasions have been catastrophic. However, as several chapters show, reactions to some exotic species, and the justifications for interventions in certain situations, including biological control by introduced natural enemies, rest uncomfortably with social reactions to ethnic cleansing and persecution perpetrated across the globe. The role of democracy in deciding and determining environmental policy is another emerging issue. In an increasingly multicultural society this raises huge questions of ethics and choice. At the same time, in order to redress major ecological losses, the science of reintroduction of native species has also come to the fore, and is widely accepted by many in nature conservation. However, with questions of where and when, and with what species--or even species analogues--reintroductions are acceptable, the topic is hotly debated. Again, it is shown that many decisions are based on values and perceptions rather than objective science. Including a wide range of case studies from around the world, this book raises critical issues to stimulate a much wider debate."--Publisher's description.
Notes: "Earthscan publishes in association with the International Institute for Environment and Development."

Includes bibliographical references and index.