ABSTRACT
The invasion of natural ecosystems by alien plants is a serious environmental problem that threatens the sustainable use of benefits derived from such ecosytems. Most past studies in this field have focused on the history, ecology, and management of invasive alien species, and little work has been done on the economic aspects and consequences of invasions. This chapter reviews what is known of the economic consequences of alien plant invasions in South Africa. These economic arguments have been used to successfully launch the largest environmental management program in Africa.
