XVI International Botanical Congess

Excluding exotic species that may become invasive is vitally important but inherently difficult. Changing trade rules increase the difficulty. As U.S. imports rise -- particularly such high-risk commodities as logs from temperate regions and horticultural plants, as well as wooden packaging--new trade rules established by the World Trade Organization run counter to recommendations by ecologist. How can we change the trade rules to ensure maximum protection for native ecosystems?