Tasmania, an island state in Australia known for its pristine nature and unique wildlife. From towering mountains and ancient rainforests to rugged coastlines and abundant marine life, Tasmania is a natural paradise. However, this precious natural environment is threatened by a number of factors, including climate change, habitat loss and pollution.
How much do Tasmanians want to protect their natural environment?
A 2020 Tasmanian Parks and Wildlife Service survey found that 93% of Tasmanians believe it is important to protect the state's natural environment. This strong public support for conservation is reflected in the Tasmanian Government's commitment to protecting the state's natural resources. In 2019, the Government released the Tasmanian Conservation Strategy 2019-2029, which sets out a vision for a future where Tasmania's natural environment is "healthy, sustainable and valued by all".
Views of scientists
Scientists agree that Tasmania's natural environment is under threat and that urgent action is needed to protect it. The Climate Change Authority's 2018 report identified Tasmania as one of the most vulnerable places in Australia to the effects of climate change. The report warns that climate change is already having a significant impact on Tasmania's natural environment, including native plants and animals.
Views of local residents
Local residents are also concerned about threats to Tasmania's natural environment. A 2019 survey by the Tasmanian Conservation Trust found that 87% of Tasmanians are concerned about the impact of climate change on the state's natural environment. The survey also found that 79% of Tasmanians believe the government is not doing enough to protect the state's natural environment.
The cost of protecting Tasmania's natural environment
Protecting Tasmania's natural environment will be costly. The Tasmanian Government has estimated that implementing the Tasmanian Conservation Strategy will cost $1 billion over the next 10 years. However, the cost of inaction is likely to be much higher. The 2019 Tasmanian Climate Change Discussion Paper estimated that the economic cost of climate change to Tasmania could reach $10 billion by 2050.
Tasmania's natural environment is under threat, but the public supports its protection. The Tasmanian Government is committed to protecting the state's natural resources, but more needs to be done. The cost of protecting Tasmania's natural environment will be high, but the cost of inaction will be far greater.
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