Get Involved This World Environment Day: 6 Practical Ways To Help Restore Ecosystems

The stark reality is this: our planet's ecosystems are under immense pressure. Unsustainable practices are pushing us towards a tipping point, threatening climate stability, wiping out countless species, and choking our environment with pollution. Nearly one-fifth of the Earth's land, covering around 2 billion hectares, is already degraded.

The numbers reveal a global catastrophe – vast swaths of land are degraded, billions of people are suffering, and entire communities are disproportionately at risk. Each year, 55 million people bear the brunt of droughts, wreaking havoc on crops and livestock worldwide. The repercussions of our inaction are dire, with food security hanging in the balance. There's a looming threat of global food productivity plummeting by 12 per cent, potentially leading to a 30 per cent surge in food prices by 2040. If we fail to address this degradation, the consequences will worsen. 

What is World Environment Day? It's our Beacon of Hope!

The Importance of World Environment Day

World Environment Day is a significant event that helps raise awareness about environmental issues. Celebrated annually on 5 June, it's a global platform for uniting our collective voice for change. Established by the United Nations in 1973, this day mobilises millions worldwide to address pressing environmental issues. With Saudi Arabia as the host this year, World Environment Day presents a critical opportunity to reinvigorate our commitment to protecting the planet we call home.

Our land. Our future. We are #GenerationRestoration

This year's World Environment Day theme, "Ecosystem Restoration," underscores the urgent need to repair our planet's life support systems. Ecosystems, such as forests and oceans, are essential for providing clean air, water, and food and regulating our climate. The slogan "Our land. Our future. We are #GenerationRestoration" emphasises the importance of reversing the damage to our planet by addressing matters such as accelerating land restoration, desertification, and drought resilience.

This World Environment Day celebration serves as a rallying call for everyone to contribute to the solution.

Everyday Actions for Remarkable Change: Inspired by the UN Environment Programme

While the challenges facing our ecosystems may seem daunting, the good news is that positive change starts with each individual. This article explores tips inspired by the practical guide for the United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP) World Environment Day, which empowers people to contribute to ecosystem restoration. From reducing waste and supporting local conservation efforts to planting native plant species, these actions can create a significant impact when multiplied across the globe.

Why Ecosystem Restoration is Our Secret Weapon Against Climate Change

Imagine a forest silent except for the wind whistling through bare branches. This used to be a vibrant ecosystem teeming with life. But human actions, illegal wildlife trade, and extreme weather conditions have taken their toll.

Ecosystem restoration is like giving this forest a second chance. It involves helping to rejuvenate environments that have experienced land degradation and preserving those still healthy. It's helping these wounded ecosystems heal by planting new trees, removing invasive species, or guiding nature in the right direction. It's not just about patching the holes. It's about actively helping these natural systems bounce back, regaining their vibrant diversity and the incredible services they provide.

Restoring Ecosystems for Biodiversity and Climate Resilience

Restoration isn't just about restoring lost beauty. It's also about maintaining biodiversity, improving soil and water quality, and building resilience to climate change. Healthy ecosystems act like nature's superheroes—they soak up carbon dioxide, filter our water, and protect us from floods and droughts.

The numbers don't lie: a UNEP report estimates that restoring 350 million hectares of damaged land and water ecosystems from present to 2030 could generate $9 trillion in ecosystem services while removing 13 to 26 gigatons of greenhouse gases from the atmosphere, providing substantial environmental benefits.

From an economic standpoint, the advantages of these endeavours far surpass the costs, yielding returns that are more than nine times the initial investment. In contrast, the price of inaction could be at least three times higher than the investment required for ecosystem restoration, underscoring the potential for substantial financial gain.

Different types of ecosystems and their restoration needs

Each ecosystem plays a vital role in the health of our planet. But just like us, they all need some TLC. Replanting trees can bring a degraded forest back to life while reviving a dried-up wetland helps build natural water retention. Coral reefs, the underwater rainforests of our oceans, require careful protection and restoration techniques to restore their dazzling biodiversity.

Restoring vital ecosystems doesn't require superhuman efforts. While large-scale projects led by government entities, businesses, and organisations are crucial, the collective effort of everyday people like you and me can also make a significant difference. Sustainable development and land restoration go hand in hand, and building drought resilience starts with healthy ecosystems. So, whether you're planting a tree in your backyard or advocating for change in your community to address global warming, remember – every action counts, and we're all in this together.

Practical Tips for Individuals

1. Help Make Agriculture More Sustainable

World Environment Day is a stark reminder that even our dinner plates can have a significant impact. This year, let's ditch the "cheap eats" mentality and embrace a more sustainable approach to what we put on our forks. Think beyond the grocery aisle—monoculture farms, relying solely on one crop and heavy chemical use, are silently stripping the life out of our soil. This harms the delicate balance of nature and makes our food systems more vulnerable to pests and disease. But we can be part of the solution by seeking local farms that embrace sustainable practices, like crop rotation and natural pest control. Every bite we take can be a vote for a healthier planet.

Individual Actions to Promote Sustainability

Support local organic farmers by buying their produce.

Ditch the faceless grocery giants and forge a connection with the heart of your local food system: organic farmers! Look for vibrant farmers' markets, like the Carriageworks Farmers Market in Sydney or the iconic Queen Victoria Market in Melbourne, bursting with fresh, seasonal produce.

Want a more personalised touch? Join Community Supported Agriculture (CSA) programs like Food Connect in Brisbane. Keep your eyes peeled for rural roadside farm stands on your country drives, or delve into the digital world with platforms like Local Harvest to connect directly with nearby producers.

Want to be part of a larger movement? Sustainable Table's community embraces you with open arms, and farm events like Open Farm Day provide a unique chance to see these incredible operations firsthand. And don't forget to ask your neighbours and friends for hidden local recommendations. After all, word-of-mouth often offers the best discoveries.

Understanding where your food comes from and how it's grown supports sustainable practices and builds a stronger, more vibrant local community. So, grab your reusable shopping bags and get ready to meet the real faces behind your delicious, organic food!

Reduce food waste by planning meals and composting food scraps.

It all starts with a bit of planning. Write down your weekly meals to buy only what you need, and avoid keeping wilted veggies in the crisper drawer. You can also ditch the plastic guilt at the grocery store using reusable produce bags. They're a colourful and convenient way to keep your veggies fresh and the planet happy.

Moreover, collecting veggie scraps and transforming them into nutrient-rich compost for your garden is like giving your leftovers a makeover! You don't need fancy equipment, just a designated bin (bonus points if it's lined with compostable bin liners) and a little know-how.

Speaking of gardens, why not embrace the "grow-your-own" movement? Not only is it gratifying to harvest your homegrown bounty, but it also cuts down on food miles and packaging waste. Sustainable Gardening Australia (SGA) has a treasure trove of resources to help you get started. So grab your gardening gloves and get ready to transform your backyard into a thriving oasis.

2. Help Save the Soil

Soil Degradation and the Importance of Soil Health

Forget the manicured lawns or the endless rows of corn. Let's get down and dirty this World Environment Day for something truly revolutionary: soil. It's a hidden world teeming with life, the foundation for all our food. But here's the shocker: because of deforestation and farming practices that treat soil like a punching bag, half of the earth's topsoil has vanished in just 150 years. These practices strip the soil of its nutrients, reduce its ability to retain water, and increase vulnerability to drought and desertification.

Soil is not just dirt. It is home to countless organisms that facilitate nutrient cycling, foster plant growth, and support overall ecosystem health. Healthy soil is fundamental for agriculture as it provides essential nutrients, retains water, and anchors plant roots. Therefore, it plays a crucial role in feeding the global population. Without healthy soil, our food security is at risk, and entire ecosystems are in jeopardy.

Use Compost and Organic Fertilisers

To contribute to soil health, start with your garden by incorporating compost and organic fertilisers instead of relying on chemical pesticides and herbicides. As recommended by Sustainable Gardening Australia (SGA), using solid fertilisers that release nutrients slowly can significantly benefit your plants. These include natural options such as manures and worm castings. If keeping livestock isn't feasible, opt for granular or pelleted alternatives like commercially available droppings or blood and bone supplements. These options ensure sustained soil fertility. Also, consider using liquid fertilisers made from natural ingredients for a quick nutrient boost. However, be cautious with their use to avoid nutrient runoff, which can harm waterways.

Practice Crop Rotation and Companion Planting

One effective method for maintaining soil health is crop rotation, which involves alternating the types of vegetables planted in the same area over different seasons. This technique helps prevent the build-up of diseases specific to certain plant families and reduces the strain on the soil. By rotating crops, you ensure that the soil remains fertile and productive, reducing the need for chemical fertilisers and enhancing the overall health of your garden.

Another beneficial practice is companion planting, where different plant species are grown together to support each other's growth and health. This approach can help repel pests, improve pollination, and boost soil fertility. For example, planting basil next to pea plant flowers can boost the growth of pea pods while repelling harmful insects such as thrips. Companion planting creates a more balanced and sustainable garden ecosystem, promoting healthier plants and better yields.

Individual Actions to Protect and Restore Soil

There are plenty of ways to support healthy soil with your everyday choices. First, harness your purchasing power. Buy products and brands that prioritise sustainable soil management. Check for organic certifications such as Soil Association Certified and Australian Organic Certified (ACO). These labels are like gold stars for companies that ditch harmful synthetic fertilisers and embrace practices that nurture the soil.

But why are these practices so crucial? Organic farming, for instance, advocates for cover cropping, where fields are filled with plants that shield the soil from erosion and replenish nutrients. This method also relies on natural pest control solutions, maintaining the delicate balance of the soil ecosystem.

The bottom line? Organic farming not only helps keep the soil fertile and prevents erosion, but it also supports a rich ecosystem. This sustainable farming method ensures that we can continue to enjoy our favourite foods for generations. Therefore, on World Environment Day, let's all advocate for soil health. Look for organic labels and choose to support brands that prioritise the well-being of the Earth, such as Simply Gentle, Organyc, Natracare, Nature's Child, and Planet Organic.

3. Help Bring Back the Pollinators

The Role of Pollinators in Ecosystems

The world relies on plants and pollinators working together. According to the UN Environment Programme (UNEP), pollination is crucial in producing nearly 75% of the fruits and seeds we consume, from the plump blueberries in your morning smoothie to the juicy tomatoes in your salad.

But this delicate process is under threat. Bees, the most efficient pollinators, face a silent extinction along with their fellow pollinators—bats, butterflies, birds, and beetles. The culprits? Intensive farming practices that leech life out of the soil, indiscriminate pesticide use that wipes out both pests and beneficial insects, invasive species that crowd out native flora, and a warming climate that disrupts natural cycles.

But there are plenty of ways to support pollinators. You can:

1. Plant native flowers: grow various native flowering plants in your garden or balcony to attract pollinators.
2. Avoid pesticides: create a pollinator-friendly habitat by using natural pest control methods.
3. Build bee hotels: provide shelter by constructing and maintaining bee hotels and other nesting sites.
4. Support local beekeepers: purchase honey and bee-related products from local farmers' markets like Queen Victoria Market in Melbourne, specialty stores like Harris Farm Markets, or online from retailers like Beechworth Honey. This supports local beekeeping communities and sustainable practices.
5. Choose sustainable beeswax: opt for products with ethically sourced beeswax, such as Honeysticks crayons and Good Riddance insect repellents, to support practices that benefit bee populations and the environment.

4. Help Restore Freshwater Ecosystems

Degradation of Freshwater Ecosystems

Freshwater ecosystems are crucial for maintaining biodiversity and supporting human life. Unfortunately, these vital environments are facing severe deterioration. Toxic chemicals, plastics, and sewage contaminate them. Overfishing and excessive water extraction for agriculture and industry also contribute to their degradation.

Rivers face additional challenges from dam construction, canalisation, and mining for sand and gravel. Wetlands, essential for many species and ecological functions, are being drained at an alarming rate, with an 87% global loss over the last 300 years and more than half of that loss occurring since 1900. Disturbingly, 33% of freshwater species are in danger of dying out.

Individual Actions to Restore and Protect Freshwater Sources

Individuals play a crucial role in restoring and preserving freshwater ecosystems. Here are some actionable steps you can take to contribute to the health of these vital habitats:

1. Reduce water usage: conserving water at home is fundamental to protecting freshwater sources. Simple actions like fixing leaks and installing water-saving fixtures can significantly reduce water consumption, lessening the strain on aquatic ecosystems.
2. Choose natural cleaning solutions: when tackling household chores, consider opting for natural cleaning products free from harmful chemicals. These biodegradable and eco-friendly products are made to protect aquatic life and maintain natural processes. By making this choice, you're not only keeping your home clean but also contributing to preserving water quality and freshwater habitats.
3. Kick the plastic habit: say goodbye to single-use plastic bottles and invest in reusable water bottles. Not only will you stay hydrated in an eco-friendly style, but you'll also be reducing plastic waste in rivers, lakes, and, ultimately, the ocean. Fewer plastic bottles floating around means cleaner water and a healthier home for aquatic life.
4. Become a freshwater advocate: support organisations that tirelessly protect freshwater habitats. The Australian River Restoration Centre (ARRC) is a great example. They're on a mission to bring our rivers back to life, providing crucial resources for anyone passionate about river conservation.

5. Help Renew Marine and Coastal Areas

We all experience a sense of calm when we're by the sea. But beneath the surface, marine and coastal ecosystems face many threats. Ocean acidification, coral reef bleaching, and overfishing are all consequences of climate change, plastic pollution, and biodiversity loss. This is a severe situation, but we can all take action to protect these critical underwater environments.

Individual Actions to Renew Marine and Coastal Areas

Small changes in our daily lives can turn the tide on plastic pollution and revive our precious marine and coastal areas.

Ditch the plastic bags! Invest in some cool, reusable shopping bags for your shopping trips. Not only will you be saving the planet by reducing plastic use, but you'll also be rocking a stylish accessory.

For beach adventures, choose sustainable beach toys for the little ones. Skip the flimsy plastic that ends up as litter and opt for eco-friendly toys made from natural rubber, bamboo, or recycled plastic. These durable options let kids have a blast while minimising their environmental footprint. Additionally, consider toys that promote ecological awareness and encourage children to respect and protect marine life and coastal ecosystems.

Want to make a more direct impact? Join a beach cleanup event! These organised efforts are a fantastic way to remove rubbish and debris from coastlines. A quick online search can connect you with cleanup initiatives like Clean Up Australia.

Finally, knowledge is power! Educate yourself (and your friends!) about the dangers of marine pollution and the vital role coastal ecosystems play in our planet's health. Share information online and support responsible seafood choices – handy guides like the GoodFish Guide will help you make informed decisions at the market.

By taking these steps, we can all be part of the solution and ensure healthier oceans for future generations.

6. Help Bring Nature Back to Our Cities

Urban Ecosystems and Their Benefits

Even in bustling cities, there are opportunities to breathe in fresh air. Urban areas are commonly associated with concrete landscapes, but green spaces such as parks and community gardens are vital as havens for bees, butterflies, and birds. But these spaces also benefit us. Research indicates that trees can lower temperatures by 5-6 degrees Celsius thanks to the shade they provide and through evaporative cooling. This leads to improved air quality, reduced perspiration, and a cooler environment, even during the hottest days.

There are plenty of ways to help rewild urban areas. You can:

1. Plant and care for native plants or trees: transform your garden or community spaces with native plants or trees. Involving kids can make this a fun family activity. Child-friendly gardening toys like Everearth's kids' garden tools ensure they can safely and easily join in the effort to nurture nature.
2. Consider green roofs and walls: think beyond the ground! Green roofs and walls are like living canvases for your home or building. They beautify the urban landscape while helping with insulation and reducing stormwater runoff. Green roofs might be a new concept in some areas, but they're a fantastic way to cool things down and create a little slice of nature in unexpected places. You can explore resources like Your Home's comprehensive guide on green roofs and walls for guidance.
3. Join local tree-planting events: passionate people in your community are likely working hard to make your city greener. Getting involved in local tree-planting initiatives and urban greening projects is a fantastic way to meet like-minded individuals and make a real difference. You can find nearby events through resources like Planet Ark's Tree Day site finder.
4. Advocate for green spaces: support the protection and expansion of parks and green areas in your city. Advocacy can lead to more green spaces that benefit the environment and community well-being.

Where to get relevant information on World Environment Day

Our planet's health is no longer headline news, but that doesn't mean we should ignore it and resign ourselves to a future of desertification and lifeless landscapes. World Environment Day is your annual reminder that YOU have the power to make a difference. It's not about feeling overwhelmed by the enormity of the problem but about taking that first step. Explore the resources at UNEP's Decade on Ecosystem Restoration website or the official World Environment Day site for inspiration.

Are you feeling fired up? Join the global movement! Find local events, share what you've learned online, or get your hands dirty by volunteering with a restoration project. Remember, even the smallest actions can ripple outwards, creating a wave of positive change.

Heal the Planet: More Nature, More Benefits!

Celebrating World Environment Day encourages awareness about pressing issues and reminds us that protecting our planet is paramount. Ecosystem restoration is crucial in this fight, and even small actions like reducing waste or planting native species can make a big difference. The good news is that we all have the power to contribute! We can collectively create positive change by adopting sustainable practices, volunteering with conservation groups, or advocating for environmental policies. Let's celebrate our planet daily by actively participating in its restoration.