Canadian municipalities are taking action to prevent the sale of invasive plants in local garden stores, while there is a growing call for a national strategy to regulate the horticultural industry. Invasive plants pose a threat to biodiversity nationwide, prompting municipalities to address gaps in the current regulatory framework that varies by region. Canada has committed to reducing the introduction and establishment of known invasive species by 50% before 2030.
The Canadian Coalition for Invasive Plant Regulation (CCIPR) is advocating for the establishment of a federal regulatory body overseeing the horticultural sector and the creation of a national database identifying invasive plants and their associated risks in different areas. Cathy Kavassalis, co-founder of CCIPR, emphasized the importance of informing the public about potential harm from invasive plants, citing the need for similar consumer warnings seen in other product categories.
While the Canadian Food Inspection Agency (CFIA) regulates certain invasive plants under the Plant Protection Act, provinces and territories have their own invasive species control laws. The CFIA stated that their approach focuses on species-specific risks rather than a universal ban on all invasive plants, with restrictions placed on the import, sale, possession, and movement of regulated pest plants.
Local initiatives have emerged in various cities, such as Nanaimo and Surrey, implementing restrictions on the sale of invasive plants listed by regional authorities. London, Ontario’s environmental committee has recommended that retailers selling invasive plants provide information to customers at the point of sale. However, Kavassalis highlighted the need for a cohesive national strategy instead of fragmented local efforts to effectively tackle the issue.
Advocates are urging the federal government to address the horticultural trade to meet the 2030 target. Studies have identified ornamental non-native plants as a primary pathway for introducing invasive species. A national database could provide crucial information to stakeholders on plant risks, although the CFIA clarified that managing such a database is beyond its current regulatory scope.
Experts like Jim Hole acknowledge the support of garden centres in preventing the spread of invasive plants, with proactive measures already taken in response to identified threats. Lorraine Johnson emphasized the significant influence nurseries have on consumer plant choices and highlighted the industry’s role in biodiversity loss. Education and regulation are seen as key tools to empower both gardeners and industry players in combating invasive species effectively.