Natural Resource Management (NRM) education and awareness
Increasing NRM knowledge and understanding in the next generation.
Capacity to Deliver - LP14-005
The issue
Biodiversity is declining faster than at any other time in history. Scientists report that more than 1 million plant and animal species are threatened with extinction, with many predicted to be extinct within the next few decades. The way natural resources including land, fossil fuels, metals, mineral and water are managed, has a big impact on the largest drivers of biodiversity loss: habitat destruction, overextraction, pollution and climate change. To halt and reverse these catastrophic impacts, it is essential the fundamental drivers of biodiversity loss are identified and addressed. Living more sustainably includes understanding and knowing the demands on earth’s resources, including the needs of humans, and the needs of environment systems. Therefore, understanding of Natural Resource Management (NRM) is crucial for the long-term sustainability of the planet.
The solution
Properly managed, natural resources provide the foundation for maintaining and improving the quality of life of the world’s population. Considered a National concern, many NRM programs and initiatives delivered throughout Australia are funded jointly by the Australian Government and State Territory Governments. To support these ongoing efforts, Little River Landcare have developed the Sustaining Science; School Education Program which seeks to educate pre-school, primary school and high school aged students in NRM awareness. Starting the path of environmental education early improves student connection to their surrounds, empowering them with knowledge and understanding to make sustainable lifestyle choices in the future. It also supports widespread behaviour change by educating the next generation to do something ‘different’.
The impact
In many instances, significant changes in some NRM assets will not be seen for many years. However, intermediate outcomes such as social behaviour and awareness to manage natural resources sustainably can be observed through localised actions such as picking up litter or tree planting for habitat restoration. School programs delivered in the Little River Catchment have resulted in more than 650 trees planted along the Buckinbah creek. The works seek to stabilise the bank and support habitat for plants and animals in the future. Recognising the importance of education in NRM has resulted in improved environmental outcomes not only for the local environment but also the region through increased biodiversity.
Key facts
- Increase understanding and awareness of Natural Resource Management.
- Support the next generation in identifying key factors influencing natural resource management practices.
- Improve the regions capacity to adopt positive practice-change in natural resource management.