No images? Click here February 2020 ECO-LOGICALWhat a start to 2020... There's nothing like a national disaster to generate a resurgence in sustainable action, activism, ideas, community spirit and generosity. If you've signed the petition, attended the rally and donated to the bushfire appeal but aren't sure what to do next, look no further than the Ecoversity program. This year we have opportunities for you to learn new skills, increase your knowledge and participate in meaningful debate. We've expanded our events and campaigns to cover sustainable transport, food, conservation, health, biodiversity, reuse, recycling and professional skills. Follow us on Facebook, email us to be added to the newsletter list and keep an eye out for a new Ecoversity website. NewsIntroducing our new internThe Ecoversity team has a fantastic new addition, with Kahlia Clarke joining Ben and Phil during 2020. Kahlia is a skilled communicator, a tireless volunteer with the Australian Youth Climate Coalition and was awarded the Young Achiever of the Year at the 2018 SA Environment Awards. Kahlia is studying a double degree in Agricultural Sciences and Environmental Policy and Management. EventsFree bike maintenanceGet your bike tuned by Treadly during International O-Week and O-Week. It's first in, first served for up to 15 minutes, with parts and accessories not included. Treadly on Campus will also have a range of lights, locks and second-hand bikes for sale. Wednesday 19 and 26 February, 10am to 3pm, Hub western courtyard AdviceOptimism in the face of realityAre you an optimist or pessimist? Shock headlines about natural disasters, land degradation and climate problems grab attention – and may accurately reflect reality. But research has found that in the absence of hope it can quickly lead to despair and disengagement. In this article by University of Adelaide academics, Dominic McAfee and Sean Connell, with Zoe Doubleday from Uni SA, learn how and why it's important to stay optimistic, even when it feels like the environment is falling apart. InspirationFrom killer to conservationistEducation is key to the protection and preservation of our natural world and Musa shows it's never too late to learn. Musa is a fifth generation dugong hunter who once fulfilled illegal contracts throughout North East Indonesia. Disturbingly, the majority of hunts sought juvenile dugongs, with a single contract sustaining Musa and his community for up to 6 months. Over time, Musa noticed the native dugong population dramatically declining, which threatened not only the sea creatures but his livelihood. Through education, he realised the value of protecting ocean wildlife and the potential earnings that could be generated through ecotourism. Musa now protects the local dugong population from hunters and runs an initiative taking tourists to interact with the animals in an ethical manner. Ben (Ecoversity Intern), met Musa in 2019 while working in Indonesia with Conservation International. Copyright © 2019 The University of Adelaide.
|