Airports will receive financial assistance, as approved by the Commission.
In Bremen, Germany, a significant challenge is facing the local ecosystem as the box tree moth (Cydalima perspectalis) infestation takes hold in a park at the city's airport. This invasive species, originally from East Asia, has been causing extensive damage to native and cultivated boxwood populations, leading to vegetation damage, biodiversity impacts, and disruptions to local ecological interactions.
The infestation has resulted in the weakening and potential death of boxwood shrubs, reducing plant cover and diversity in affected areas. This loss of boxwoods can have far-reaching consequences, negatively impacting insects and other organisms that rely on these plants for food or habitat.
Recognising the severity of the situation, Bremen Airport GmbH and WFB Wirtschaftsförderung Bremen GmbH have taken action, initiating the clearing of infested plants. The removal of boxwoods will pave the way for a uniform lawn, but the long-term plan is to redesign and adapt the park to the changed climate and biodiversity conditions.
Long-term solutions to combat the box tree moth and promote ecosystem resilience involve several strategies. Regular inspection of boxwood shrubs, especially from May to September, is crucial for early detection and reporting of infestations. Employing an Integrated Pest Management approach, which combines biological controls, cultural practices, and targeted chemical treatments, can effectively manage moth populations while minimising ecological harm.
Diversifying park landscapes by reducing reliance on boxwoods and planting species less susceptible to pests can improve overall ecosystem resilience and biodiversity. Preventing pest spread through regulations like restricting the movement of infested plant material or firewood, and encouraging public awareness and participation in reporting infestations, can help slow the impacts of invasive species.
Continued scientific research into the moth’s biology, impacts, and control methods, combined with adaptive management strategies, will be essential as climate change may modify pest dynamics and ecosystem responses. The responsible departments for economy, construction, and environment, and Bremen Airport will decide together on the future design of the park, focusing on climate adaptation, strengthening biodiversity, quality of stay for airport guests and employees, and maintenance costs.
The estimated cost of the current clearing work is around 10,000 euros, but no new costs associated with the future design decision have been mentioned. The decision on the future design of the park is still pending, providing an opportunity to fundamentally review the design, focusing on the park's role in maintaining a healthy and diverse ecosystem while catering to the needs of the airport and its visitors.
As the box tree moth infestation continues to impact park ecosystems, it is clear that a multi-faceted approach is needed to combat this invasive species and promote the resilience and health of local ecosystems. Through collaborative efforts, early detection, effective management strategies, and adaptive design, we can work towards a sustainable future for our parks and the wildlife they support.
- In the face of the box tree moth infestation, the Bremen Airport and economic development agency are taking action to clear affected boxwood plants, with a long-term goal of redesigning the park to adapt to changing climate and biodiversity conditions.
- Regular inspections of boxwood shrubs, employing an Integrated Pest Management approach, and diversifying park landscapes are strategies for combating the box tree moth and promoting ecosystem resilience.
- To slow the impacts of invasive species, regulations can be put in place to prevent pest spread, such as restricting the movement of infested plant material or firewood and encouraging public awareness and participation in reporting infestations.
- Continued research into the moth's biology, impacts, and control methods, combined with adaptive management strategies, will be crucial as climate change may modify pest dynamics and ecosystem responses, ultimately aiming to protect and promote local ecosystem health in the context of airport operations.
