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Zero Heracleum

Project “Protecting the biodiversity of cross-border territories of Ukraine and Poland from invasive hogweed (Heracleum) populations” PLUA.01.03-IP.01-0008/23
in accordance with the decision of the Monitoring Committee of 18-19.04.2024 under the Programme Interreg NEXT Poland – Ukraine 2021-2027

The rapid spread of invasive plant species causes great damage to biodiversity and the environment. Invasive plants are displacing native species, creating monocultures and simplifying wildlife habitats. In Ukraine and Poland, more than 80 species of plants cause damage to agriculture and forestry. According to the International Convention on Biological Diversity, the spread of invasive plants is a major threat to native plant species and ecosystems. Ukraine, members of the European Union and other countries are obliged to prevent the introduction and spread of alien species. One of the most dangerous invasive species is Heracleum sosnowskyi (hogweed), which is also harmful to human health.

A cross-border approach to hogweed control is needed for the following reasons:

• The spread of an invasive species has no limits: hogweed cannot be stopped by natural barriers, therefore control must be a joint effort;
• Common resources and ecosystems: the Ukrainian-Polish border region shares common rivers, forests and landscapes, therefore effective hogweed control requires cooperation of both countries;
• Harmonization of actions: it is necessary to jointly block hogweed invasion routes and ensure the sustainable functioning of natural ecosystems;
• Joint monitoring: the exchange of information between countries will enable an effective response to the spread of hogweed and will improve methods of its control;
• Joint scientific research: facilitating the implementation of innovative methods of population control and biodiversity restoration in natural ecosystems;
• Ensuring sustainability and long-term results: a cross-border approach allows for the creation of effective joint monitoring and control of hogweed.

Budget: EUR 1,676,036.47
Funding: EUR 1,508,432.82
Priority: Environment
Specific objective: 1.3 Strengthening the protection and conservation of nature, biodiversity and green infrastructure, including in urban areas, and reducing all forms of pollution
Duration: 24 months
01.06.2025 – 31.05.2027

Information on the website of the Interreg NEXT Poland – Ukraine 2021-2027 Programme:

• https://pl-ua.eu/en/fighting-the-green-invader/
• https://pl-ua.eu/en/projekty-i-historie/zeroheracleum/