Invasive alien species are all around us. They come in the form of plants, animals, or microorganisms that are introduced, intentionally or unintentionally, into areas where they are not native.

All are introduced invasive species that are reshaping ecosystems, disrupting economies, and causing disease, costing an estimated $1.3 trillion globally each year, according to the U.S. Department of Agriculture National Invasive Species Information Center.

Four transdisciplinary Virginia Tech teams attempting to solve some of the world’s stickiest and most urgent challenges are getting a boost this spring from Destination Area 2.0 grants.