The Australian Koala Foundation (AKF) is proud to recognise World Environmental Education Day, a global event that highlights the importance of education in protecting and restoring our natural environment.
For the AKF, environmental education is at the heart of Koala conservation. With Koalas listed as endangered across much of eastern Australia, it has never been more vital to inspire young people, communities, and decision-makers to understand the threats facing our native wildlife and the habitats they depend on.
Central to this is the AKF's advocacy for the Koala Protection Act (KPA). Unlike existing environmental legislation, such as the flawed EPBC Act – that has proven ineffective at protecting habitat, the KPA is a simple, yet powerful piece of proposed law designed to protect Koala habitat before it is destroyed. It places responsibility on decision-makers to prove that developments will not damage Koala populations or the ecosystems they rely on. "You have to ask why our Government still has faith in such inadequate protection of habitat for the most iconic species on the plant," said Deborah Tabart OAM, Chair of the AKF.
The AKF believes education is key to building understanding and support for the KPA. By informing communities about how habitat destruction directly affects Koalas and millions of other species, many of whom are endangered — and how legislation can prevent further loss — the AKF hopes to empower people to call for stronger protection measures at both local and national levels.
Through programs such as Plant-A-Tree, Adopt-A-Koala, and the Koala Army, the AKF continues to engage schools, communities, and supporters worldwide, ensuring Koalas remain a flagship species for environmental education and action. Along with Save The Koala Month, held each September, and Save The Koala Day, the AKF works to raise awareness and educate people worldwide. The AKF also works year-round to advocate for stronger protection of Koalas and their habitat, ensuring that conservation and education remain at the forefront of public attention.
To honour World Environmental Education Day, the AKF calls on Australians to reflect on the role of education in protecting not only Koalas but also the ecosystems we all share.
Together, with knowledge and action, we can make a difference.
Get involved today: visit our website to see how you can help, hold a fundraiser or bake sale, make this topic the focus of a school term or early education project, or join the Koala Army and stand with us in calling for the Koala Protection Act. Every action counts — the future of Koalas and their habitat depends on it.
