Why it’s important
We need nature to survive. We rely on it for the clean air we breathe and the clean water that supports us, as all living things do. And that’s not all – nature is also a key part of the solution to climate change.
The threat
After falling sharply from 2005, land clearing in Australia is once again rising dramatically thanks to the severe weakening of land clearing laws by state governments. And the bulldozers aren’t just destroying Australia’s precious forests and woodlands – they’re also releasing millions of tonnes of greenhouse gases into the atmosphere, exacerbating climate change. Analysis from a new report shows that emissions from land clearing are skyrocketing in Australia. And, if nothing is done, greenhouse gas emissions will spiral out of control.
What we’re doing about it
Protecting nature is an essential part of the climate change puzzle. When we stop land clearing and regrow native forests instead, we not only help biodiversity across Australia, we store carbon in our stunning landscapes. And with the right policies in place, we can also provide economic and social benefits to regional and remote communities. The Wilderness Society sees protecting forests and restoring Australia’s landscapes as a key part of the solution to climate change. That’s why we’re working towards a national plan to reduce carbon emissions from land clearing, and incentivise the restoration of our forests and woodlands.
How you can help
– Sign the petition – ask Prime Minister Turnbull and Environment Minister Hunt to stop the dozers and develop a national plan to address skyrocketing carbon emissions from land clearing.
– Become a volunteer! In 2016, we’re ramping up our volunteer program so we can get out into the community and start talking to people. If you’re passionate about our forests and rivers, sign up today.
– See more at: https://www.wilderness.org.au/campaigns/nature-climate-solution#sthash.6CfR5LPj.dpuf.