40+ leading scientists urge decision-makers to take urgent action on National Threatened Species Day
Dozens of Australia’s leading scientists have united to call on Queensland’s decision-makers to take urgent action to protect our iconic wildlife and natural heritage in an open letter released on National Threatened Species Day.
The letter - signed by more than 40 prominent scientists including Professor James Watson, Dr Michelle Ward, Professor Martine Maron and Professor Hugh Possingham - highlights the escalating biodiversity crisis which has seen Australia become the fourth-worst country globally for extinction, and urges Queensland’s leaders to adopt strong policies to halt and reverse the decline of biodiversity.
It comes as 13 new species have been added to Queensland’s threatened species list under the Nature Conservation Act, alarming conservationists about the state of the environment in Queensland.
The scientists are calling on Queensland's decision-makers to:
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Set a target of no new extinctions. Without a clear commitment, Queensland's most endangered species will go the way of the Bramble Cay Melomys and Gastric-brooding frogs, species that recently were found only in Queensland but are now gone forever.
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Create an independent environmental protection agency (EPA) to enforce the laws that protect our natural places and wildlife. Without one, there's no one to hold those who exploit the rules accountable.
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End deforestation and protect habitat across the state by strengthening regulations, and supporting high integrity incentives for long term conservation outcomes. It is well established that habitat clearance is the single greatest threat endangering Australian species.
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Doubling Queensland’s protected area estate to 17% by 2030. Right now Queensland has the lowest percentage of protected areas, with only 8.6% protected, in spite of a state target of 17% and a Federal target of 30% by 2030.
- Invest at least $200 million per annum of Qld state money for threatened species protection and recovery.
The open letter will be delivered to state politicians alongside a rally at Queensland Parliament next Tuesday, where hundreds are expected to march to support stronger nature policies as the state election approaches in October.
Professor James Watson from the University of Queensland said:
“Queenslanders are proud of the state’s natural heritage and most realise the state’s economy depends on nature to be healthy. But as Queenslanders, we need to keep on remembering our state has more threatened species and ecosystems than any other state. This includes species like the enigmatic Night Parrot, which was only rediscovered a decade ago and which is still on the brink of extinction.
“For decades, our leaders have been turning a blind eye on Queensland’s biodiversity crisis, with dwindling budgets set aside for protecting our environment and setting policies that enable land clearing at scales that beggar belief.
“Every review shows that Queensland’s biodiversity is in dire straits and we need to stop sleepwalking into an environmental catastrophe. There are clear solutions around setting up and enforcing sensible legislation that works to protect nature and for the state government to set budgets that are affordable but will enable Queensland’s environment to thrive.”
Dr Michelle Ward from Griffith University said:
“Queensland’s incredible wildlife and natural areas are vanishing at an alarming rate. Countless animals and habitats have disappeared within our lifetime, and without swift and united action, our nature, economy, and the well-being of future Queenslanders are at grave risk.”
“Yet, I remain hopeful. We are discovering species every day. With decisive action, together, we can make a difference. Every one of us, regardless of our background or location, has a role to play in restoring nature. Whether it be replanting your own land, voting for the party with the best environmental policy, or support sustainable businesses.”
“The science is clear on what needs to be done, and there are already remarkable individuals making a difference across farms, businesses, and energy systems. We simply need more of it.”
QCC Nature Campaigner Natalie Frost said:
“Despite our rich natural heritage, Queensland is at the forefront of a concerning trend, leading the country with the highest number of threatened species and just this week 13 new species have been added to Queensland’s threatened species list.
“Australia is recognized as the sixth most biodiverse country globally, with Queensland standing out as the nation’s biodiversity powerhouse.
“The state is home to a staggering 85% of Australia's mammals, 72% of its birds, over 50% of its reptiles and frogs, and more than 14,000 plant species.
“In the lead up to the state election in October, we are calling on the ALP and the LNP to outline strong policies to turn this around so Queensland can become a global leader in protection of our wonderful plant and animal life.”