Biodiversity in Australia
Biodiversity, short for biological diversity is the variety of all life forms on earth. It includes all the different plants, animals, and microorganisms that are part of this planet. Biodiversity is essential for human life on Earth, as it helps in the supply of clean air and water to the plants, along with maintaining a healthy ecosystem and fertile soils.
In terms of biodiversity, Australia is considered one of the few “mega-diverse” countries in the world. A report prepared for the Australian Biological Resources Study in 2009 estimated that 566,398 species exist in the country. Many of the planets, animals and places that exist here are not found anywhere else in the world.
Celebrating Biodiversity in your daily life
There are many ways in which you can celebrate Biodiversity at your home. For instance:
Reduce food waste and recycle:
According to the 2016 report from FAO, fresh produce is the most wasted food group. Being proactive in recycling and reducing food waste, we are able to have a positive impact on both biodiversity and climate control. Check out our campaign on food waste to find out more ways to use it all, save it all.
Start composting:
One of the best ways to recycle is to start your own compost bin. Organic matter such as vegetable scraps and tea leaves can be composted and used in the garden. If you have the space, you can also look into starting a worm farm.
Create a wildlife habitat in your backyard or garden:
Providing a natural sanctuary in your garden is a great way to help the local animals and plants in your area. Identify the native plants in the area, and plant them in your garden. It’s not necessary to have a large space for this – you can plant flowers in a pot or on your windowsill. Even those are enough to attract birds, bees, butterflies, and other beneficial wildlife.
Ecoganic® farming and Biodiversity
One of the ways we at Perfection Fresh Australia celebrate biodiversity is through the Ecoganic® farming method which is used to grow Ecoganic® Red Tip® bananas. Ecoganic® farming is an ecological production and management system that enhances biodiversity and eliminates the use of harsh chemicals, minimising the impact on surrounding waterways.
It is a different organic farming system designed to protect the biodiversity and the environment. Insects, soil, birds, and plants are a key feature in helping to create a strong and healthy environment to grow sustainably farmed produce.
The role of beneficial insects in Ecoganic® farming
Insects perform a myriad of ecologically beneficial roles in the plantation. Various kinds of grass and weeds in the plantation provide food and habitat for many ECO insects. Each ECO insect species performs a particular role in the plantation ecosystem, for examples insects;
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Return nutrients to the soil - The Recyclers
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Assist in plant pollination - The Pollinators
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Feed on nectar, seeds and foliage - The Herbivores
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Manage the ecosystem - The Predators
Nature provides the building blocks for our survival, such as food, clean air, water, and shelter. Nature also supports our health, well-being and our economy.
How to tell if a product is Ecoganic®
Any product certified Ecoganic® will have a distinctive red wax tip, such as the Red Tip® Ecoganic® Bananas. Look for these creamy and sweet bananas at your local grocery store know that you are buying the bananas that are good for you , and for the environment!