Planet Ark research shows Australians embrace regeneration

New research released ahead of National Tree Day on 2nd August from environmental foundation, Planet Ark, has shown over 50% of Australians feel compelled to act in the interest of environmental causes after witnessing the devastation of the 2019/20 summer bushfires.

The research also found that Young Australians aged 18-29 desired to take action most strongly, with over 60% compelled to act and that approximately 55% of Australians felt that time in nature improved their mood or eased anxieties during the ongoing coronavirus pandemic.

The Planet Ark report, Regeneration: for our land, our people and our future, focuses on the impact of the year’s unprecedented events, the bushfire season and the ongoing Coronavirus pandemic, on Australia’s environment and collective wellbeing.

The report incorporates insights from experts in the fields of regeneration ecology, indigenous fire management practices, psychology and child/family wellbeing to explore how our land and communities have been impacted and how together, we can start the journey towards regeneration.

In response to the report’s findings and following the cancellation of public plantings for the first time in 25 years, Planet Ark’s National Tree Day is encouraging Australians to share a photo of themselves with a tree or their favourite plant with the hashtag #HugATreeForNTD as a commitment to regeneration.

Planet Ark Deputy Chief Executive, Rebecca Gilling notes “after the unparalleled start to the year we have had here in Australia, regeneration of our land and our wellbeing is more critical now than ever.

“We are calling on all Australians to make a pledge to regenerate through connecting with nature, whether that be by planting a tree in the backyard, doing some weeding in local bushland or simply hugging a tree!”

Schools Tree Day (31st July) and National Tree Day (2nd August) are Australia’s largest annual tree-planting and nature care events. While official National Tree Day group planting events have been cancelled this year due to the impact of COVID-19, Planet Ark remains committed to celebrating trees and helping communities around Australia connect with nature on these days.

The organisation encourages Australians to plant in their backyard or garden where possible, access the range of resources online and get involved with the #HugATreeForNTD campaign to show their commitment to regeneration.

Image: Toyota has been a proud partner of National Tree Day since 1999 and note “as Australia’s largest tree-planting and nature care event, it’s a fantastic opportunity to contribute to the environment and reconnect with nature. Toyota and Planet Ark are working together to build a greater understanding of how people can create a better environment for future generations. Image courtesy of Toyota