Australia’s fragile environment needs protection as human activity and sea pollution are affecting and damaging the planet. What is being done and who is involved in protecting the natural wonders? Are national parks enough to protect nature and its biodiversity?

IA response to protect the environment

1 Protection and conservation

Australia is famous for its natural beauty, its wildlife and important cultural Aboriginal heritage. It is considered as one of 17 “megadiverse” countries which account for 70% of Earth’s biodiversity.

A national park is an area defined to protect the biodiversity of the area, for instance Australian native plants or places of cultural significance. Australia counts more than 500 national parks and 60 marine national parks. Australia’s Royal National Park in New South Wales was the first one to be created in 1879, only 7 years after Yellowstone in the United States.

2 Ways of working

National parks in Australia are based on 4 main principles: decisions based on traditional knowledge and scientific research, enhancement of Australia’s social and economic well-being, partnerships and co-investment to trigger innovative programs, and a responsive organisation.

National parks’ purpose needs to be followed by important investment and active conservation efforts and management. Australia would need to invest about A$2 million a year to save threatened species. Yet, it is important to note that Australia has faced criticism for its response to certain environmental challenges.

IIClimate change and industrial pressure

1 A growing problem

Rising temperatures, sea level, droughts, unpredictable rainfall patterns and devastating wildfires are creating a strain on national parks. Australian parks and reserves attempt to adapt and develop specific strategies.

In addition to land, Australia needs to address its marine reserves as well. Only 17% of Australia’s marine sanctuaries are fully protected from overfishing, resource extraction and other industrial activities.

However, the effectiveness of Australia’s responses raises debate. The Australian government’s continued support for the fossil fuel industry, including coal mining, has drawn criticism.

The tourism industry also impacts the environment: tourism-related transportation and / or high tourist numbers can strain water supplies, waste management, which in turn disrupt wildlife behaviour and habitat.

2 Other initiatives

The Australian government has implemented different policies and initiatives to address the issue, which includes water management, land management, biodiversity conservation or indigenous involvement.

Australia has programs and legislation in place to protect threatened and endangered species, such as the Environment Protection and Biodiversity Conservation Act enacted in 1999. It serves as a legal framework aiming to balance economic development with the conservation of natural resources.