The voluntary <scp>C</scp>ode of conduct on invasive alien plants in <scp>B</scp>elgium: results and lessons learned from the <scp>A</scp>lter<scp>IAS LIFE</scp>+ project

Abstract

Voluntary approaches have been recently used in the horticultural sector to deal with the introduction and spread of invasive alien plants. In B elgium, the first C ode of conduct has been developed within the frame of the A lter IAS project, a LIFE + “ I nformation &amp; C ommunication” project aiming at raising the awareness of horticulture professionals and gardeners on the invasive plants issue. The B elgian C ode was prepared in consultation with representatives from the ornamental sector, public authorities and the scientific community. The C ode was promoted throughout the country with a specific communication campaign entitled “ P lant different”. Thanks to communication efforts, a positive dynamic of involvement was observed over time. Surveys were performed to assess the changes of attitudes and the perception of the C ode by the target audience of the project. Positive results were achieved for horticulture professionals. However, the C ode will require more time to be widely adopted by the ornamental sector in B elgium.