Situation of the environmental regulatory framework with emphasis on invasive exotic species in Uruguay

Abstract

The present study the environmental problems of invasive alien species, and shows from a legal perspective, the foundation provided by the Constitution of the Republic, and the main international agreements, to understand the state of the legislation of Uruguay in relation to these species, considering that they alter the ecological balance and cause an enormous cost for human, animal, plant health, and for socioeconomic wellbeing. Based on the review and organization of existing legal regulations, the legal elements that Uruguay has to deal with biological invasions are identified, twelve related international conventions are summarized and recommendations are listed to strengthen legislation in prevention, eradication, control and mitigation of its impacts. In addition, the legal frameworks, approaches, and guiding principles are presented, which allow improving attention to bioinvasions and contribute to providing the necessary legal foundations for their management.