The preceding years have seen an increase in the attention afforded to ecosystems and ecosystem services. Although there are numerous threats to ecosystems and the resultant ecosystem services, alien and invasive plants (AIPs) have been identified as being one of the major causes of ecosystem destruction. In addressing the threat of alien and invasive plants1 through the use of various mechanisms, the regulatory framework imposed by legislation is key in ensuring that controlling AIPs2 does not in fact do more harm than good. One such control mechanism, which has the potential to do wonders or wreak havoc if not adroitly implemented, is the use of biological control agents. This note will attempt to provide a brief overview of the three main instruments used to regulate biological control agents in South Africa, namely the Conservation of Agricultural Resources Act 43 of 1983 (CARA), the Agricultural Pests Act 36 of 1983 (APA), and the National Environmental Management Biodiversity Act 10 of 2004 (NEM: BA), whilst also considering possible future developments on the regulation of biological control agents. This overview will be provided on the back of a brief introduction as to what ecosystems and ecosystems services are, and how biological control agents can aid in addressing threats to them.
