
• Professor Lorenzo Vilizzi, a global expert in invasive species risk assessment with extensive experience in aquatic ecology, led the event’s agenda, which included species identification, data management, risk assessments, and practical training, offering invaluable global perspectives on the impacts of invasive species.
By Shouq AlMulla
Special to The Times Kuwait
The Regional Organization for the Protection of the Marine Environment (ROPME) recently wrapped up a five-day workshop at its Kuwait headquarters focused on risk screening of marine invasive species, bringing together twenty five biologists from eight member states to boost regional cooperation in tackling this issue.
The workshop, part of a year-long project to produce national and regional reports, was conducted in collaboration with Professor Lorenzo Vilizzi – a global expert in invasive species risk assessment. The agenda included species identification, data management, risk assessments, and practical training sessions.
Professor Vilizzi, with extensive experience in aquatic ecology, has led numerous international studies on the risks posed by invasive species and their impacts on local ecosystems, adding invaluable global perspectives and expertise to the event.
The workshop agenda featured a diverse array of topics, including the identification and management of invasive species, environmental risk assessment, regional case studies, and interactive sessions designed to enhance practical skills.
Key activities included hands-on training in species mapping, data management, and the development of strategies to mitigate the impacts of invasive species on marine environments.
This year-long project aims to produce eight national reports, as well as a comprehensive regional report covering the ROPME Sea Area.
Participants praised the interactive format of the sessions, which combined theoretical knowledge with practical applications tailored to address the unique challenges of the region.
The program also emphasized the importance of regional collaboration in addressing the growing threats posed by invasive species.
One participant noted, “This workshop was a fantastic opportunity to exchange ideas and collaborate with experts and colleagues from across the region. The knowledge we gained here will be critical in strengthening our national and regional strategies.”
The event highlighted ROPME’s commitment to protecting the marine environment and fostering scientific and technical collaboration among its member states. It also served as a platform to build the capacities of regional biologists, equipping them with the tools and knowledge necessary to address the pressing issue of invasive species in their respective countries.