Environmental Education Archives - Australian Environmental Education

November 3, 2024November 3, 2024

Creating a Thriving Wildlife Garden: A Success Story

Transforming a garden into a thriving wildlife sanctuary is a rewarding and impactful way to support local biodiversity and connect with nature. I have had a great time working on the garden and creating a space that is relaxing for me and haven for local wildlife.

My goal was clear: design a garden that would support native flora and fauna while creating an inviting natural oasis. Native plants were chosen for their resilience and compatibility with local species, while a dragonfly garden with a water feature was included to attract dragonflies, damselflies, and frogs. By providing a habitat with food, shelter, and water, the garden aimed to draw in various species and give them a safe place to thrive. I now have a Water Dragon that lives nearby, tadpoles, damselfly and dragonfly nymphs living in the pond.

I started the process of The transformation was almost immediate. With the native plants taking root, insects and small animals quickly followed. The pond became a lively centre of activity, home to dragonflies, damselflies, and tadpoles. Stripe marsh frogs and common eastern froglets were soon heard calling, marking the garden as a hotspot for native frogs.

Key Elements of the Wildlife Garden

Native Plants and Vegetation: Carefully selected native plants formed the backbone of the garden. Hardy shrubs, grasses, and flowering plants created a layered structure that mimicked local bushland. These plants provide food and shelter for insects, birds, and small mammals while requiring minimal maintenance.
Dragonfly Garden and Pond: The heart of the project was a small pond, ideal for attracting dragonflies, damselflies, and native frogs. Shallow and shaded at the edges but deeper in the centre, the pond was lined with rocks and aquatic plants that offered ideal spawning grounds for tadpoles and larvae, adding biodiversity to the garden ecosystem.
Log and Rock Piles: Strategic log and rock piles added structure to the garden, offering hiding spots for reptiles, insects, and small mammals. These features also help to retain moisture, creating a microhabitat that attracts invertebrates, which in turn attract other wildlife up the food chain.

During the night I hear the unmistakable calls of the Powerful Owl and Southern Boobook Owl echoed through the garden, suggesting that even these top predators were taking note of the new ecosystem. The presence of these owls, which rely on small mammals and other prey, indicated that the garden was supporting a complex food web.

Dragonfly Garden infographic © Australian Environmental Education

The increase in insect life attracted various bird species, enriching the biodiversity and adding another layer to the garden’s ecosystem.

Creating a successful wildlife garden is not only about design but also about patience and careful observation.

This wildlife garden is a testament to the impact of intentional, eco-friendly gardening, proving that even small spaces can support diverse and thriving ecosystems. For anyone inspired to start their own wildlife garden, this success story offers a roadmap and motivation to begin. By embracing native plants and creating a few key habitats, any garden can become a sanctuary for local wildlife, benefiting both the environment and the community.

September 20, 2024September 20, 2024

World Rivers Day

World Rivers Day is a celebration of the World’s Waterways! It highlights the many values of our rivers, strives to increase public awareness, and encourages the improved stewardship of all rivers around the world. Rivers in virtually every country face an array of threats, and only through our active involvement can we ensure their health in the years ahead.

Murrumbidgee river — Murrumbidgee River © Bidgee

Australia has 439 rivers, many of these rivers are quite small and are tributaries that flow into larger rivers.

Celebrate World Rivers Day with me for Riverfest. Riverfest is the Parramatta River Catchment Group’s annual event – celebrating the Parramatta River and surrounding creeks and environment!

I will be delivering FREE live virtual excursions on Thursday 26 and Friday 27 September. If you are in Sydney you can join me at the Paint the River on World Rivers Day event at Paramatta Park on Sunday 29 September.

Where the river meets the sea title slide

FREE live Virtual Excursion at 2pm on Thursday 26 September

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Water and the Environment Trivia FREE live Virtual Excursion at 1pm on Friday 27 September

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A river is a natural watercourse flowing towards an ocean, sea, lake or another river. In some cases, a river flows into the ground and becomes dry at the end of its course without reaching another body of water.

Find out more about Rivers

A catchment is an area where water is collected by the natural landscape. A catchment is usually surrounded by hills or mountains. Gravity causes rain, melting snow and other water in the catchment to run downhill where it flows into creeks, rivers, lakes and eventually the ocean. The water that seeps below ground and settles in the soil and the space between rocks is called groundwater.

Find out more about Catchments

September 7, 2024September 8, 2024

Threatened Species day

Threatened Species Day is recognised across the Australia on 7 September every year to raise awareness of plants and animals at risk of extinction. Threatened Species Day acknowledges the death of the last remaining Thylacine, Tasmanian tiger at Hobart Zoo in 1936.

Thylacine with chicken — © Henry Burrell

Australia is renowned for its extraordinary wildlife, with unique species that can’t be found anywhere else in the world. But with this rich biodiversity comes an unfortunate reality: many of our native animals are on the brink of extinction. Since European settlement, more than 100 species have been lost.

Unfortunately Australia is home to more than 1,800 species currently listed as threatened, including mammals, birds, reptiles, amphibians, and plants. Threatened Species Day is a call to action. It’s a moment to reflect on the species we’ve lost and a powerful reminder to protect those we still have.

The key drivers of species decline in Australia include:

Habitat destruction: Urbanization, land clearing for agriculture, and mining have destroyed vast areas of natural habitat.
Invasive species: Introduced animals such as foxes, cats, and rabbits have devastated native wildlife populations.
Climate change: Rising temperatures, bushfires, and prolonged droughts are pushing species beyond their limits.
Pollution: Waterways and ecosystems are increasingly under threat from pollution, including plastic waste.

Threats to Biodiversity infographic - Deforestation, pollution, climate change, and overexploitation of natural resources

How You Can Help

Saving Australia’s threatened species might seem daunting, but there are actions each of us can take to make a difference. Here are some meaningful ways to get involved:

Support Conservation Organizations

Many non-profit organizations across Australia work tirelessly to protect threatened species and their habitats. Supporting groups like the World Wildlife Fund (WWF), the Australian Wildlife Conservancy, or local wildlife rescue centers through donations or volunteering can make a huge difference. Your contribution helps fund research, habitat restoration, and species recovery programs.

Create Wildlife-Friendly Spaces

Whether you have a sprawling backyard or a small balcony, creating wildlife-friendly spaces is a practical way to help. Planting native trees and shrubs provides food and shelter for local birds, insects, and small mammals. Installing nesting boxes for birds, possums, or microbats can also offer safe havens for these creatures. Even small actions like placing water bowls out during the hot summer months can support local wildlife.

Say No to Single-Use Plastics

Plastic pollution is a major threat to marine life, with countless animals affected by ingesting or becoming entangled in plastic waste. Reducing your reliance on single-use plastics—like bags, straws, and packaging—can prevent these items from ending up in our oceans and rivers. Opt for reusable alternatives and dispose of waste responsibly.

Be a Responsible Pet Owner

Pets, especially cats and dogs, can pose significant threats to native wildlife. Keeping your pets indoors or supervising them outside, especially in areas where threatened species may live, can prevent them from hunting or disturbing local animals. Desexing pets and ensuring they are microchipped helps reduce stray populations, which often prey on wildlife.

Get Involved in Citizen Science

Many conservation programs rely on the public to help monitor species populations. Citizen science initiatives like BirdLife Australia’s backyard bird count, the Australian Koala Foundation’s koala surveys, or FrogID allow everyday Australians to contribute to important scientific data. These efforts help researchers track changes in populations and better understand the needs of threatened species.

Advocate for Stronger Environmental Laws

While individual actions are important, systemic change is essential for long-term conservation success. Stay informed about environmental issues and advocate for stronger environmental protections, particularly when it comes to land clearing, mining, and deforestation. Contact your local representatives, sign petitions, and participate in community meetings where decisions about land use are being made.

A Shared Responsibility

Saving Australia’s threatened species is a shared responsibility. Each one of us has a role to play, whether it’s through everyday actions like reducing waste, getting involved in local conservation projects, or speaking up for stronger environmental protections.

Threatened Species Day is a moment for reflection, but it’s also a call to action. Together, we can ensure that future generations have the chance to witness the beauty and diversity of Australia’s wildlife—not just in pictures or history books, but in the wild, where these creatures belong.

Let’s make a difference, today and every day.

September 3, 2024September 3, 2024

Biodiversity Month: Every Species Matters

September marks Biodiversity Month, a time dedicated to appreciating and understanding the incredible variety of life on Earth. From the tiniest microorganisms to the largest mammals, biodiversity encompasses the entire range of species that inhabit our planet. This month offers a unique opportunity to reflect on the importance of preserving biodiversity and to recognise the intricate relationships that sustain our ecosystems.

Biodiversity refers to the variety of living organisms in a particular habitat or ecosystem. It includes the diversity within species (genetic diversity), between species (species diversity), and the diversity of ecosystems themselves. These elements work together to create the complex web of life that supports all living beings, including humans.

Find out more

Why is Biodiversity Important?

Biodiversity is crucial for maintaining ecological balance. Each species plays a specific role in its ecosystem, contributing to functions like pollination, nutrient cycling, and pest control. The loss of even a single species can disrupt these processes, leading to unforeseen consequences.

Biodiversity also directly impacts human health and well-being. Many of our medicines, foods, and materials are derived from natural sources. A diverse ecosystem also provides clean air, water, and fertile soil, all of which are essential for our survival.

Many cultures around the world have deep connections with nature. Biodiversity is woven into traditions, spiritual beliefs, and practices that define cultural identities. Protecting biodiversity is also about preserving this cultural heritage.

Ecosystems with high biodiversity are more resilient to environmental changes, such as climate change. A diverse gene pool allows species to adapt to new conditions, ensuring the survival of ecosystems even in the face of challenges.

Threats to Biodiversity

Despite its importance, biodiversity is under threat from various human activities. Deforestation, pollution, climate change, and overexploitation of natural resources are leading to habitat loss and species extinction at an alarming rate. According to the United Nations, around one million animal and plant species are now threatened with extinction.

How Can We Protect Biodiversity?

Supporting conservation projects, whether through donations, volunteering, or spreading awareness, is a powerful way to protect biodiversity. This includes preserving natural habitats, supporting wildlife protection laws, and creating more protected areas.

Adopting sustainable practices in our daily lives can significantly reduce our impact on the environment. This includes reducing waste, conserving water, choosing sustainably sourced products, and supporting eco-friendly companies.

Educating ourselves and others about the importance of biodiversity is crucial. The more people understand the value of biodiversity, the more likely they are to support conservation efforts and make environmentally conscious decisions.

Advocating for policies that protect biodiversity, such as stronger environmental regulations and support for renewable energy, can lead to significant positive changes on a global scale.

Whether you’re planting native species in your garden, participating in a local clean-up, or simply taking a moment to appreciate the natural world, every action counts.

Let’s commit to making small changes that contribute to a more sustainable future. By working together, we can ensure that the incredible variety of life on Earth continues to thrive for generations to come.

August 30, 2024September 2, 2024

Awesome August

What a week, but really I should say what a month! August has been awesome, with so many events and programs linked to National Tree Planting Day, National Science Week and Book Week.

It was wonderful to be back at the Rhodes Science Festival with Mary Bell from Nature Knows for National Science Week. We always have so much fun talking to visitors and there is always a great vibe at the event.

I presented the What’s in your Backyard virtual excursion for SciFest 2024, celebrating National Science Week. Almost 4000 students were registered for the event and many classes have followed up and watch the recording below.

I also created and delivered amazing series of online trivia events for SciFest 2024. I did 4 session linking to the National Science Week Theme Species Survival – More Than Just Sustainability. There were over 6500 students register across, Biology trivia, Australian Animal trivia, Plant life trivia and Environmental trivia.

It was great to be able to follow up from National Tree Planting Day and do some school tree planting with Greening Australia. Tree Planting enables people to make new habitat zones, improve green spaces, increases shade and creates connection to nature. There are so many ecological and social benefits from tree planting and it is great to be involved in Greening Australia’s Cooling the School program.

Cooling the Schools is an initiative delivered by Greening Australia and funded by the NSW Department of Planning, Housing and Infrastructure. Watch a short video from Ferncourt Public School about there Colling the Schools experience.

Watch the Clip

I delivered a STEM family activities with Little Scientist at an early childhood centre on the Central Coast NSW. There were 80 children participating in 4 inquiry based learning activities across the afternoon. Children were constructing towers or creating a tool to carry a ping pong ball around an obstacle course. Everyone had a lot of fun.

I wrapped up August with the Willoughby Fauna Fair. This year was the 20th anniversary of the event. The What’s in your Backyard display and Nature Craft activity fit perfectly into this year’s theme Our Awesome Urban Survivors and celebrated the resilience and adaptability of wildlife in urban environments.

I definitely deserve a break after all these events, but September is Biodiversity Month and the 5th anniversary of launching Australian Environmental Education. Maybe October will be quieter!

May 7, 2024May 7, 2024

Outdoor Classroom Day

Outdoor Classroom Day is on 23 May and the 7 November. Outdoor education leads to a greater connection with nature and improves student engagement. Outdoor education and nature play teaches critical life skills including resilience, teamwork and creativity and is also central to enjoyment.

The Australian Curriculum section on Outdoor learning states it can be instrumental in:

the teaching and learning of self-reliance, interdependence and leadership
the development of an adventurous spirit
managing personal risks
experiencing safe journeys in nature
learning the value of lifelong outdoor recreation for enjoyment, health and wellbeing
understanding nature through direct experience; and the development of deeper human–nature relationships.

Outdoor Education resources

Australian Environmental Education has a range of resources on earth and environmental science. These programs are designed to get your kids outside exploring the world around them. Try the What’s in your Backyard series of resources and videos on YouTube.

The What’s in your Backyard resources are designed to help you explore the amazing wildlife in your local area. Look for the clues that are left behind to discover more about these animals and what you can do to protect them.

What’s in you Backyard resources

There are many ways to connect nature and teach outdoors. Go on a nature walk, collect natural material to use in art projects, become citizen scientists and record wildlife observations. These are all simple ideas you can do with your kids at home or at school.

Use all your senses to discover the amazing world around you.

Remember to look up and change your perspective
Touch and feel different tree bark
Visit your favourite tree, if you don’t have one, find one
Listen to the sounds around you

Find out more on the Outdoor Classroom Day website

March 22, 2024March 22, 2024

World Water Day 2024

Today is World Water Day, the 22 March highlights the importance of freshwater. The day is used to promote the sustainable management of freshwater resources. This years theme of World Water Day 2024 is ‘Water for Peace’.

Water is essential for all life and is the most abundant substance on Earth, yet water scarcity is one of the biggest issues facing us today. Australia is the world’s driest inhabited continent and 2019 was on of the the hottest and driest year on record. Because of many years of dry conditions, the drought worsened in 2019, resulting in Australia’s driest year on record. With area-average rainfall of just 277.6 mm almost the entire continent was in drought.

However in many part of the world, Water can create peace or spark conflict. When water is scarce or polluted, or when people have unequal, or no access, tensions can rise between communities and countries. More than 3 billion people worldwide depend on water that crosses national borders. Yet, only 24 countries have cooperation agreements for all their shared water.

As climate change impacts increase, and populations grow, there is an urgent need, within and between countries, to unite around protecting and conserving our most precious resource. Public health and prosperity, food and energy systems, economic productivity and environmental integrity all rely on a well-functioning and equitably managed water cycle.

Find out more with UN Water

Even through water covers 75% of the earth’s surface, only a very small amount is freshwater that can be used directly by people, animals and plants. This is because:

97% of this water is in oceans and is too salty for people, animals or plants to use
2% is frozen at the north and south poles, in glaciers and on snowy mountain ranges
Only 1% is avaiable as freshwater in rivers, lakes and groundwater.

Earths water vector illustration. Labeled global liquids ecosystem scheme. Environmental fresh — Earths water: ocean, river, sea and groundwater ©: normaals

Water is a precious resources and it is up to us to care and manage water for the future.

This World Water Day think of how you can use water more wisely in your daily life. Below is some information to help you get started.

How to be Waterwise

The Urban Water Cycle

The natural water cycle has been modified by people to ensure a constant water supply and the safe disposal of wastewater. The Urban Water Cycle incorporates the Water Supply System, Wastewater system and the Stormwater system.

Why is Water Important

Water is the most common substance found on earth, so why is it important? Water is essential for all forms of life and can dissolve nearly anything. It can exist as a gas (water vapour and steam), a liquid (water) and a solid (ice).

June 5, 2023June 5, 2023

World Environment Day 2023: Beat Plastic Pollution

More than 400 million tonnes of plastic is produced every year worldwide and less than 10 per cent is recycled. Over half of the plastics produced every year is designed to be used only once. Discarded or burnt single-use plastic harms human health and biodiversity and pollutes every ecosystem from mountain tops to the ocean floor. An estimated 19-23 million tonnes of plastic waste end up in lakes, rivers and seas annually.

Plastic pollution has emerged as one of the greatest environmental challenges facing our planet. The durability of plastic coupled with its improper disposal and inadequate recycling infrastructure has led to its accumulation in landfills, waterways, and oceans. This issue is particularly relevant for Australia, given its vast coastline and marine biodiversity, making it crucial to address the impact of plastic pollution on the nation’s fragile ecosystems.

We need to make a nationwide commitment to combat plastic pollution and implement sustainable practices. Governments, in collaboration with environmental organizations, local communities, and businesses need to work together to to find a long term solution including:

Promoting Awareness and Education
Expansions on Plastic-Free Initiatives
Investing in Recycling Infrastructure
Collaborative Partnerships.
Supporting Research and Innovation

World Environment Day theme for 2023 is a reminder that people’s actions on plastic pollution matters. Try some of these idea to help you reduce your plastic waste.

Tips to reduce plastic waste and to prevent ocean pollution

Australia stands at the forefront of the global battle against plastic pollution. The nation’s commitment to reducing plastic waste, promoting awareness, and fostering sustainable practices demonstrates its dedication to preserving our unique natural environment. From protecting biodiversity to addressing climate change, promoting sustainable practices to fostering Indigenous stewardship, We are taking significant steps towards creating an environmentally responsible nation. However, the journey towards sustainability is ongoing, and it requires continuous efforts from individuals, communities, and governments alike. Let us unite in our commitment to preserve and restore our precious ecosystems, ensuring a greener and brighter future for Australia and the world.

Together, we can make a difference. Happy World Environment Day!

January 2, 2023January 7, 2023

2022: it’s a wrap

What a year it has been! 2022 started with continued restrictions in the education sector. As the year progressed restrictions were reduced and face to face session were able to resume. It was also great to participate in community events again.

Australian Environmental Education 2022 in review

15,000 people were reached across all the programs and events during 2022. Over 150,000 people visited 250,000 pages across the website for their earth and environmental science needs. There were 6.6 million impressions on Google, with the Noises in the Night , Geologic Timescale and the Scientific Method the top 3 performing pages.

Different animals eggs, features and furs

Awards

Finalist in the 2022 Local Business Awards: Northern Districts for Outstanding Education Services and Outstanding Business Person of the Year.

Australian Environmental Education was awarded ‘Top Sustainability Blogs’ of 2022 by Twinkl

2022 was a great year and I’m looking forward to see what 2023 brings.

October 30, 2022October 31, 2022

FrogID Week 2022

FrogID Week 2022 is on between 11 – 20 November. This is the fifth FrogID Week and you can get involved. Australia is home to about 240 species of native Amphibians, all of which are frogs. In urban areas, human development has reduced the natural habitat available to frogs. FrogID Week is a great way to learn about frogs living in your backyard.

Help to record frog calls during FrogID Week using the free app and uncover which frogs live in your backyards, local parks and bushlands. Your recording can help identify changes to local frog populations and inform frog conservation across Australia. Download the free FrogID app today and help us count Australia’s frogs.

Watch the Focus on Frogs video to find out more about Frogs.

You can create a frog friendly garden

Frogs are very sensitive to water loss because their skin is permeable. This also means Frogs are really sensitive to chemicals. Frogs can end up absorbing chemicals that could harm or potentially even kill them. Pesticides can also deplete the frogs’ food source.

You can encourage frogs to come to live and breed in your backyard by creating a frog friendly garden. Create a small shallow pond in an area that is partly shaded or install a Frog Hotel.

Reducing chemicals use in your garden 

Creating a Frog Habitat 

Be patient and wait, if you build it they will come

Use FrogID to research the frogs that are found in you local area. This will help you work out what kind of habitat will suit your backyard best.

You can use PVC pipe to create a habitat for tree frogs. Frog Tubes are an easy way to provide somewhere safe for tree frogs to live too. Use a 1 metre length of PVC pipe and stick the base in the ground to tie them to a tree. It provides a really moist environment for tree frogs to hide in.

A Frog Hotel is a great option for tree frogs and provide them a safe place to hide during the day. Check out the video below for step by step instructions on how ro make a Frog Hotel.

Discover more about Frogs and some of their amazing adaptions. There are also lots of information to create a frog friendly backyard in your area.