Planet Ark is calling on Australians to join the collective effort to care for our unique biodiversity and help support the country's threatened species this National Tree Day.
According to the most recent State of the Environment report, over 1,900 species are listed under the Environment Protection and Biodiversity Conservation (EPBC) Act[1]. Of this, over 70 per cent (1,385) are plant species, yet significantly less resources are dedicated towards protecting threatened plant species.
The issue of threatened species conservation is also prevalent in cities as well as regional areas, with recent research revealing approximately 30 per cent of Australia's threatened species live within the country's 98 'urban areas' cities.[2] Urban areas have also been proven to support substantially more threatened species per unit area than more rural regions.
Just some of the species groups around the country are planting for this week include the Mount Lofty Ranges southern emu wren, the growling grass frog, the southern cassowary, the regent parrot, the mahogany glider and Australia's favourite fluffy marsupial the koala, among others.
With Australia's biodiversity in decline and facing significant challenges, National Tree Day serves as an important opportunity for individuals, schools and communities to actively engage with their local environment. Participants are empowered to make a positive impact by restoring habitats, creating wildlife corridors, and enhancing the resilience of local ecosystems.
"National Tree Day is not just about planting trees; it's about fostering a deeper connection between people and the environment," said Rebecca Gilling, CEO of Planet Ark.
"It provides a tangible way for everyone to take part in the conservation of our natural heritage and play a vital role in supporting threatened plant and animal species."
Schools Tree Day, specifically tailored for educational institutions, aims to instil environmental stewardship among students early on by providing the opportunity for young Australians to gain valuable insights into local biodiversity and ecosystems and the important role that native vegetation plays in supporting it.
Planet Ark research has shown around 70 per cent of Australians agree spending time in nature increases their desire to protect environment, yet about three quarters feel they don't spend enough time in nature.
"We encourage everyone from schools to local businesses and individuals to get involved in National Tree Day, it's only by working together that we can make a meaningful difference in safeguarding our environment for future generations," added Gilling.
National Tree Day was established by Planet Ark in 1996, with over five million volunteers contributing to more than 27 million native trees, shrubs and grasses planted in the years since. While planting events can be planned year-round, the program will celebrate Schools Tree Day on July 26, and National Tree Day on July 28.
This year, National Tree Day is celebrating an incredible 25 years of support from Major Sponsor Toyota Australia, who each year mobilise their dealer network and brand ambassadors to assist schools, councils and groups in caring for their local environment.
Toyota Australia Chief Marketing Officer Vin Naidoo said Toyota and its dealer network are incredibly proud to be celebrating its 25th year supporting Planet Ark's National Tree Day this year.
"The ongoing support through this important partnership demonstrates Toyota's commitment to sustainability and maintaining our native Australian environment."
"As we mark this impressive milestone, we encourage all Australians to get outdoors in nature and plant a native tree or shrub to add to the 27 million trees already planted," Mr Naidoo said.
To find out how to participate or locate an event near you, visit the National Tree Day website - treeday.planetark.org.
[1] Cresswell ID, Janke T & Johnston EL (2021). 'Australia State of the Environment 2021: Overview', 18 July 2021. Retrieved from: https://bit.ly/4f5Sezn
[2] The Clean Air and Urban Landscapes Hub (2015). 'Threatened species in Urban Areas', 7 December 2016. Retrieved from: https://bit.ly/4cGYfB6
Key Facts:
National Tree Day is Australia's largest community tree planting and nature care event.
Since being established in 1996, over five million volunteers have planted more than 27 million native trees, shrubs and grasses through the program.
According to the most recent State of the Environment report, over 1,900 species are listed under the Environment Protection and Biodiversity Conservation (EPBC) Act.
Over 70 per cent of threatened species (1,385) are plants, yet significantly less resources are dedicated towards protecting threatened plant species.
Approximately 30 per cent of Australia's threatened species live within the country's 98 'urban areas' cities.
About us:
About Planet Ark
Planet Ark Environmental Foundation is an Australian not-for-profit organisation with a vision of a world where people live in balance with nature. Established in 1992, it is one of Australia's leading environmental behaviour change organisations with a focus on working collaboratively and positively. Planet Ark promotes and creates simple, positive environmental actions – for everyone.
