the quality of analyses rather heterogeneous. Furthermore, while the regulations require
detailed information on the biology and ecology of the species, the region and circumstances of its introduction and other relevant factors, they do not provide guidance on
how to reach conclusions on the species’ risk based on that information, or how to
format the analysis (i.e. it is not actually a framework for risk analysis). Given the lack
of clear guidelines on how to assess and weight each aspect, and how to reach a
conclusion on the magnitude of risk, it is difficult to defend the accuracy and consistency when using this approach (Keller and Kumschick 2017). Further disadvantages
of this approach are that it is time and resource-consuming.
To assist applicants for import permits to develop risk analyses and to render the
decision-making process more transparent, a framework and guidelines for risk
analysis have been developed—the Risk Analysis for Alien Taxa Framework
(RAAT; Kumschick et al. 2018). The framework is based on international bestpractice, and the guidelines cover most aspects related to the risk of alien species as
outlined in the framework provided in the NEM:BA A&IS Regulations; information
on the intended activities related to the permit application would need to be outlined
separately. RAAT consist of 23–29 detailed questions. Answers to questions are
given as scenarios to reduce assessor bias, and calculations provided to achieve risk
levels (low, medium or high). The framework includes all aspects of risk as
described in Fig. 20.3. In many developing countries like South Africa, decisions
need to be made with limited funds and expertise available (see also Soliman et al.
2016 for southeast Asia). Even though RAAT can take several days to complete, it is
less labour-intensive than collecting all the detailed information as outlined in the
NEM:BA A&IS Regulations. Furthermore, conclusions regarding risk levels are less
subjective as answer levels and calculations are outlined in detail. These guidelines
are, however, not currently implemented for import applications (but see below for
listing of species under the NEM:BA A&IS Regulations).
To support the DEFF in making decisions concerning the risks of biological
invasions, the South African Alien Species Risk Analysis Review Panel (ASRARP)
was formed. ASRARP is tasked with reviewing risk analyses attached to import
applications to ensure they are scientifically robust and take into account the best
available evidence, as well as risk analyses underpinning the listing of species under
national legislation (see below and Fig. 20.4). ASRARP is an independent body (run
through the South African National Biodiversity Institute) that incorporates scientists and taxon experts. It provides recommendations as to the validity and completeness of the information provided in the analysis, as well as recommendations
regarding the outcomes of the application (i.e. whether to import and/or regulate a
species). Recommendations are submitted to DEFF who then decide whether to
grant the import permit (Fig. 20.4).
20 Analysing the Risks Posed by Biological Invasions to South Africa
585
detailed information on the biology and ecology of the species, the region and circumstances of its introduction and other relevant factors, they do not provide guidance on
how to reach conclusions on the species’ risk based on that information, or how to
format the analysis (i.e. it is not actually a framework for risk analysis). Given the lack
of clear guidelines on how to assess and weight each aspect, and how to reach a
conclusion on the magnitude of risk, it is difficult to defend the accuracy and consistency when using this approach (Keller and Kumschick 2017). Further disadvantages
of this approach are that it is time and resource-consuming.
To assist applicants for import permits to develop risk analyses and to render the
decision-making process more transparent, a framework and guidelines for risk
analysis have been developed—the Risk Analysis for Alien Taxa Framework
(RAAT; Kumschick et al. 2018). The framework is based on international bestpractice, and the guidelines cover most aspects related to the risk of alien species as
outlined in the framework provided in the NEM:BA A&IS Regulations; information
on the intended activities related to the permit application would need to be outlined
separately. RAAT consist of 23–29 detailed questions. Answers to questions are
given as scenarios to reduce assessor bias, and calculations provided to achieve risk
levels (low, medium or high). The framework includes all aspects of risk as
described in Fig. 20.3. In many developing countries like South Africa, decisions
need to be made with limited funds and expertise available (see also Soliman et al.
2016 for southeast Asia). Even though RAAT can take several days to complete, it is
less labour-intensive than collecting all the detailed information as outlined in the
NEM:BA A&IS Regulations. Furthermore, conclusions regarding risk levels are less
subjective as answer levels and calculations are outlined in detail. These guidelines
are, however, not currently implemented for import applications (but see below for
listing of species under the NEM:BA A&IS Regulations).
To support the DEFF in making decisions concerning the risks of biological
invasions, the South African Alien Species Risk Analysis Review Panel (ASRARP)
was formed. ASRARP is tasked with reviewing risk analyses attached to import
applications to ensure they are scientifically robust and take into account the best
available evidence, as well as risk analyses underpinning the listing of species under
national legislation (see below and Fig. 20.4). ASRARP is an independent body (run
through the South African National Biodiversity Institute) that incorporates scientists and taxon experts. It provides recommendations as to the validity and completeness of the information provided in the analysis, as well as recommendations
regarding the outcomes of the application (i.e. whether to import and/or regulate a
species). Recommendations are submitted to DEFF who then decide whether to
grant the import permit (Fig. 20.4).
20 Analysing the Risks Posed by Biological Invasions to South Africa
585