A recent enquiry established by the New South Wales parliament has found that without acute intervention, the Koala population may face extinction in the state by 2050. By Kumar Shree
The 2019-20 Australian bushfire was one of the most damaging forest fires in the recent history of mankind. The blaze consumed more than five million hectares of forest and 24 per cent of koala habitat.
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About 5,000 koalas lost their lives in the bushfire. The year-long investigation also reveals that factors such as the clearing of land in the name of agriculture, development, mining, and forestry also contribute to the declining koala population.
The committee also mentioned climate change as another major factor. Not only does it accelerate bushfire and droughts, but also causes a decline in the quality of eucalyptus leaf, which forms a major element of koalas’ diet.
As reported by BBC, Cate Faehrmann, Member of the New South Wales Legislative Council and the report committee chairman said, “At every turn, we were handed evidence that showed our current laws are inadequate and facilitating the clearing of core koala habitat… The strategies and policies currently in place to protect the koala aren’t working.”
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State Environment Minister Matt Kean echoed the same sentiments, “Koalas are an iconic Australian animal recognised the world over and a national treasure which we will do everything we can to protect for future generations,” he said.
The committee has suggested 42 recommendations, which include setting up new national parks, restoring their habitats, and ensuring less land clearing for human needs.
The koala population in Australia can be found in Queensland, South Australia, Victoria, and the Australian Capital Territory. However, many conservation groups suggest that their population is on a steady decline.
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