We at PlantingSeeds by FoodFaith share the sense of loss and sadness generated by the heartbreaking images of distressed, hurt and thirsty koalas, kangaroos and other animals and scenes of devastation showing dead animals.
Of course, the human loss from the bushfires is shocking but so too is the impact on our animal population. Ecologist and Professor Chris Dickman from the University of Sydney says the Australian bushfires have contributed to the loss of well over one billion animals including birds, reptiles, frogs, fish, bats and insects. Of course, we cry and mourn what we have lost. But we also need to reflect, think and act.
Urban dwellers can help (apart from donating, volunteering and becoming more politically informed and active) through encouraging habitat for our birds, animals and insects.
The B&B Highway with its pollinator gardens, habitat and ‘homes’ does this and is based on sound science. Consider the following:
Urban areas can help redress the decline of animal, bird and insect life:
Cities are now recognised as having conservation benefits and offer biodiversity hotspots. Academic research shows that the rich variety of plant life that urban areas offer can actually support a greater range of animals, birds and insects than in many areas of bushland and rural habitat. A 2018 Department of the Environment and Energy, CSIRO and Geoscience Australia report ‘Sydney Basinbioregion’ reads: ‘The bioregion… is one of the most species-diverse of the IBRA (Interim Biogeographic Regionalisation for Australia) regions in Australia.’ This is a result of the variety of rock types, topography and climates in the bioregion.
Protecting and encouraging animal, bird and insect life in cities offers insurance against losses in rural and bush environments.
While we do not want to think of our cities as only harbouring zoos or ‘vaults’ for our fauna, it is important to protect our endangered species. Cities may also provide what is described as a ‘spillover’ effect for nearby agricultural lands.
City gardens help us engage with nature, facilitate education and improve human well-being.
The B&B Highway has been recognised by the NSW Department of Education for its practical educational features through associated curriculum being developed to facilitate learning by school children. Terms such as ‘nature deficit syndrome’ sound futuristic but actually apply today. Children need to get their hands dirty; plant flowers, herbs, fruit and vegetables, observe bees, birds and butterflies in their backyard so they appreciate what we stand to lose – and are losing.
Gardens help counter pollution and greenhouse gases.
We are all asking how we can help counter climate change and of course, it is multi-factorial. Planting plants is simply a win win.