Environmental Education Archives - Australian Environmental Education

February 21, 2025February 21, 2025

Exploring the Underwater World

It’s been far to long between dives, so it was time to get back underwater. One of my favouirte spots is the Haven at Terrigal on the Central Coast of NSW. This sheltered bay offers a fantastic SCUBA diving experience, with an abundance of marine life that captivates both beginner and experienced divers alike.

After some heavy rain and wind during the week, it wasn’t surprising that the visability wasn’t very good. There was also a lot of surge that made the dive challenging. But sometimes you just need to get underwater.

Descending beneath the surface, we were greeted by a thriving underwater world where rocky reefs and sandy seabeds provide a home to a variety of fascinating creatures. One of the highlights is the inquisitive Eastern Blue Groper Achoerodus viridis. These charismatic fish, easily recognised by their striking blue colouration, and will follow you around. The males are a vibrant blue, while the females and juveniles are a reddish-brown colour. Blue Gropers play a vital role in maintaining the health of the rocky reef, feeding on sea urchins and other invertebrates.

Eastern Blue Groper *Achoerodus viridis* copyright: John Turnbull

Rays and Sharks of The Haven

It’s always a good idea to keep an eye on the sand at the Haven because there are alway so many rays. There were dozens of Common Stingrees hiding in the sand and we even spotted the uniquely patterned Fiddler Ray Trygonorrhina fasciata. Both these rays bury themselves in the sand, relying on their excellent camouflage to stay hidden from predators and nosey divers.

Diving along the rocky ledges and overhangs, we saw 2 huge Banded Wobbegongs Orectolobus halei hiding between the rocks. These well-camouflaged sharks blend perfectly with their surroundings, waiting patiently to ambush unsuspecting prey. Despite their fearsome appearance, they are generally docile and an incredible sight to witness in their natural habitat.

These rays and sharks are generally peaceful creatures, but like all marine animals, they should be observed with respect and from a safe distance.

Schools of Fish in Motion

One of the most mesmerising sights underwater is the movement of fish in large schools. Even with the visability so poor, we saw the spectacle of Yellowtail Scad Trachurus novaezelandiae swimming in synchronised formations, creating dazzling displays of silver and gold. These fish move in unison, shifting and turning as one, a truly awe-inspiring sight.

Yellowtail Scad *Trachurus novaezelandiae* copyright: John Turnbull

Protecting Our Marine Environment

The Haven is not just a fantastic dive site but also an important marine habitat that needs our protection. Divers can help preserve this incredible ecosystem from the growing threats from pollution, overfishing, and climate change. As divers and ocean lovers, we can help by practicing responsible diving including:

avoiding disturbing marine life
maintaining buoyancy to avoid disturbing the seabed
removing underwater rubbish, hooks and fishing line
supporting conservation efforts.

By appreciating and respecting the delicate balance of this underwater world, we can ensure that future generations will have the opportunity to experience the wonders of SCUBA diving at The Haven. Whether you’re a seasoned diver or just starting your underwater journey, The Haven on the Central Coast is a must-visit destination for an unforgettable marine adventure.

Have you dived at The Haven? Share your experiences in the comments below!

January 30, 2025January 30, 2025

World Wetlands Day 2025

World Wetlands Day is celebrated on 2 February every year. It is time for everyone to understand the importance of wetlands. This years theme is Protecting Wetlands for Our Common Future. Wetlands are areas of land saturated or flooded with water permanently or seasonally. There are a variety of wetlands including:

Coastal wetlands: saltwater marshes, estuaries, mangroves, lagoons, coral reefs
Inland wetlands: marshes, peatlands ponds, lakes, rivers, floodplains, swamps, fens
Human-made wetlands: fish ponds, reservoirs, saltpans

Wetlands are among the most productive ecosystems on Earth, providing essential services such as:

Water purification – Wetlands filter pollutants, improving water quality for both wildlife and humans.
Flood control – They absorb excess rainfall, reducing the impact of extreme weather events.
Biodiversity hotspots – Wetlands are home to countless species, from birds and fish to insects and amphibians.
Climate resilience – They store carbon, helping mitigate the effects of climate change.

Despite their importance, wetlands are disappearing three times faster than forests due to urban development, pollution, and climate change. By understanding and protecting these ecosystems, we can secure the future of our water resources and biodiversity.

In Australia there are 66 Ramsar sites wetlands of international importance covering about 8.3 million hectares. These sites include iconic wetlands such as Kakadu National Park, Roebuck Bay, Gippsland Lakes, Moreton Bay, Blue Lake, Macquarie Marshes and the Coorong.

The main threats to wetlands in Australia are:

river regulation and water diversion
land reclamation and development
catchment disturbance
introduction of weeds and pest animals
climate change

This World Wetlands Day, take action to support wetland conservation:

Visit a local wetland – Explore these unique habitats and learn about the species they support.
Participate in a clean-up – Join a community group to remove litter and improve wetland health.
Plant native vegetation – Help restore wetland areas by planting trees and aquatic plants.
Educate others – Share knowledge about the importance of wetlands in classrooms and online.

I’m based in the Central Coast in NSW and it is surrounded by a number of estuaries and coastal lagoons, from Lake Macquarie in the north to the Hawkesbury River in the south. Within the Central Coast it is estimated there are about 870 hectares of mangroves, 190 hectares of saltmarsh and 1,780 hectares of seagrass.

Find a wetland near you to explore this weekend!

Wetland Finder

Join us in celebrating World Wetlands Day 2025 by taking steps to protect these vital ecosystems. For more information and resources, visit https://www.worldwetlandsday.org and follow us for upcoming events and activities!

Check the health of your local wetland with the Wetland Audit.

Wetland Audit

Let’s work together to ensure a sustainable future for our wetlands and water resources!

January 22, 2025January 23, 2025

Violet Snails, nature’s floating marvels

I went to Killare Beach on the Central Coast of NSW after the recent wild weather and saw a lot of Blue Bottles and Violet Snails along the hightide line. Violet Snail are sometimes found washed ashore, particularly during summer in Australia and around the world.

Violet Snails Beachcombing Killcare 2025

The Violet Snail Janthina janthina get their name from their striking violet or purple-colored shells, which provide them with a distinctive appearance. These snails inhabit tropical and subtropical oceans, where they spend their lives riding the ocean currents at the mercy of the winds.

Violet Snails float by producing a own mucus-covered bubble raft, and feeding on floating jellyfish and organisms like Blue Bottles Physalia physalis. These jellyfish and Blue Bottles provide both food and protection, however Violet Snails must be careful when feeding to avoid being stung by their venomous tentacles.

Unlike most snails that crawl along the seafloor, violet snails have adapted to a open ocean lifestyle. They produce a bubble raft using mucus, which allows them to float on the water’s surface and travel vast distances.

Living a life adrift comes with many challenges. Violet snails are at the mercy of ocean currents and weather patterns, which can sometimes strand them on beaches far from their usual habitats. When they do wash ashore, their vibrant shells often attract beachcombers and curious observers like me.

The Role of Violet Snails in the Ecosystem

As both predators and prey, violet snails play an important role in marine ecosystems. They help control populations of their prey and, in turn, provide food for a variety of fish and seabirds. Their unique adaptations make them an excellent example of how marine life thrives in the vast, unpredictable ocean.

If you’re lucky enough to spot a Violet Snail when beachcombing, take a moment to admire its delicate beauty and the intricate design of its shell. However, it’s best to observe and leave them in their natural habitat, as they are an important part of the marine food chain.

Learning about incredible creatures like the violet snail helps us appreciate the diversity and complexity of our oceans. Next time you’re at the beach, keep an eye out for these little floating marvels—you never know what wonders the next tide might bring!

At Australian Environmental Education, we love sharing the wonders of the natural world. Stay tuned for more fascinating insights into Australia’s diverse ecosystems and the amazing creatures that call them home!

January 20, 2025January 30, 2025

Top 10 webpages

I started making the Australian Environmental Education website in 2019 and I have really enjoyed creating all the content. I love to see the information being used by so many people across Australia and around the world.

I have now written 185 webpages and 100 blog posts for the Australian Environmental Education website. There have been almost 700,000 visitors viewing 2.1 million pages. Top 10 pages make up about a quarter of the page views over the last 5 years. You can check out the content below:

You can also check out the video content that I have made exploring my backyard and beyond on my YouTube channel.

It has been great to get messages from children, parents and teachers about how they are using the content. I will continue to make easy to use environmental content and I hope what fascinates me also fascinates you!

December 16, 2024December 26, 2024

A Sustainable Christmas: Spreading cheer without costing the earth

Christmas is a wonderful time of year filled with joy, generosity and celebration. These celebrations and gift giving also generate a lot of waste. By making conscious choices, we can enjoy the festivities while treading lightly on the planet. Here are some simple tips to help you celebrate a more sustainable Christmas.

Thoughtful Gifting

Gift-giving is a wonderful tradition, but it’s worth considering the environmental impact of our choices. Give the gift of an experience, such as a voucher for a workshop, tickets to a local event, or a membership to a museum. Craft your own gifts or support local artisans by purchasing handmade items. Choose gifts made from eco-friendly materials or from brands that prioritize sustainability. If you’re unsure what someone might like, consider giving them the gift of choice with a reusable gift card.

Wrapping Wisely

Traditional wrapping paper is often coated with plastic or glitter, making it non-recyclable. Instead, use scarves, tea towels or cloth wraps that can be reused. Try using recycled paper tied with natural string or reuse ribbons or reuse gift bags. Get creative with old make your own wrapping paper using old maps, newspapers, or children’s artwork. Add a sprig of greenery or seadpods for an extra festive touch!

Decorating Sustainably

Decking the halls doesn’t have to harm the environment. Consider these eco-friendly ideas, like using dried orange slices, cinnamon sticks, or fresh foliage and flowers to create stunning decorations. Switch to energy-efficient LED fairy lights to save on electricity. Craft decorations from recycled materials or involve the kids in making salt dough ornaments.

Eco-Friendly Feasting

Food is at the heart of many Christmas celebrations. Reduce waste and make your meals more sustainable by creating a list and stick to it to avoid overbuying. Support local farmers and choose seasonal produce. Set up a compost bin for food scraps and leftovers. If you’re hosting, consider serving smaller portions and encouraging guests to take leftovers home.

Rethinking the Tree

The Christmas tree is a cherished tradition, but it’s worth considering alternatives to the standard cut tree. You could choose a native Australian tree or shrub in a pot, which can be replanted after Christmas. Alternativly you could make a tree from recycled materials or branches. Some companies now offer live Christmas tree rentals, which are replanted after the holidays.

Spread the Message

Sustainability is about community. Share your eco-friendly ideas with family and friends, and inspire them to adopt more sustainable practices too. By working together, we can make Christmas a time of giving back to the planet as well as to each other.

This festive season, let’s focus on what truly matters: creating joyful memories, celebrating with loved ones, and being kind to the Earth. Wishing you a Merry and Sustainable Christmas!

December 5, 2024December 5, 2024

World Soil Day

World Soil Day (WSD) is held annually on 5 December to focus attention on the importance of healthy soil for the sustainable management of soil resources. Our planet’s survival depends on the link with soil. Over 95 percent of our food comes from soils and 15 of the 18 naturally occurring chemical elements essential to plants.

The theme for the WSD celebration in 2024 is “Caring for Soils: Measure, Monitor, Manage.” This theme highlights the importance of accurate soil data and information in understanding soils characteristics and supporting informed decision-making on sustainable soil management for food security.

Find out more about World Soil Day

What is soil?

Soil is the thin layer of material covering the earth’s surface and is formed from the weathering of rocks. It is made up mainly of mineral particles, organic materials, air, water and living organisms—all of which interact slowly yet constantly. Most plants get their nutrients from the soil and they are the main source of food for humans, animals and birds. Therefore, most living things on land depend on soil for their existence.

Graphic: SoilLife Get Dirty! Get Connected!

Soil is a valuable resource that needs to be carefully managed as it is easily damaged, washed or blown away. If we understand soil and manage it properly, we will avoid destroying one of the essential building blocks of our environment and our food security.

Find out more about Soils

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

Book Now

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

Book Now

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.