To stop the spread of the invasive species Himalayan balsam in Kalix Municipality, the Interreg Aurora funded project BB Alien project has tested a new approach: behavioural design. Through a workshop and a resident survey, the municipality has identified what is needed to encourage more people to act. The findings highlight clearer information, simpler reporting, and joint efforts as key factors.
To find effective ways to tackle Himalayan balsam, the BB Alien – Beyond Borders: Joint Efforts to Combat Invasive Alien Species project collaborated with Beteendelabbet (the Behaviour Lab), experts in behavioural change. In a joint workshop with Kalix Municipality, the team analysed the barriers preventing residents, landowners, and contractors from acting against the plant. The workshop laid the groundwork for a survey later distributed to residents, and the results now provide clear guidance for future work.
The survey reveals that although most people are aware of Himalayan balsam and its negative impact on biodiversity, few act. Uncertainty about where the plant grows, how to manage it, and how to report sightings are the biggest obstacles. Additionally, a lack of feedback on reported observations risks reducing engagement over time.
Many were able to identify several invasive alien species, some easier that others, according to the survey
Despite these challenges, the survey shows that residents are willing to help – provided it is made simple enough. Clear instructions, community action days, and practical support from the municipality are in demand. Many would also be more motivated if they saw tangible results, such as a reduction in Himalayan balsam in their local area.
The workshop and survey have given us valuable insights into what is needed to get more people involved, says Sara Byrsten, project manager for BB alien. We will now use this knowledge to develop initiatives that make it easier for residents, landowners, and contractors to do the right thing.
In the long term, BB Alien hopes that the work on Himalayan balsam can serve as a model for tackling other invasive species in the future. The project is testing methods that can be scaled up and adapted for other contexts and municipalities.
The project BB Alien – Beyond Borders: Joint Efforts to Combat Invasive Alien Species, is a cross-border collaboration between Sweden and Finland with the goal of preventing the spread of invasive alien species. The project runs from 1 March 2025 to 29 February 2028 and is funded by the EU Interreg Aurora fund. Swedish Agency for Marine and Water Management is co-financing the parts of the project carried out in Sweden.
Learn more about the project BB Alien
