SDG 15: Life on Land

SDG 15: Life on Land – The Business Imperative for Biodiversity in Australia  

Our terrestrial environment is fundamental to how we live and work. From the resources businesses use to the spaces where we build our homes, a healthy terrestrial ecosystem is vital. Australia’s diverse landscapes supply essential resources for industries and hold cultural and economic value. SDG 15 isn’t just about conservation; it underscores our direct reliance on land-based ecosystems. In this article, we explore the role of life on land in shaping Australian business and the practical steps we can take to protect it. 

Understanding SDG 15 Today  

SDG 15 emphasizes the conservation and sustainable use of terrestrial ecosystems. It underscores the importance of combating desertification, halting and reversing land degradation, and halting biodiversity loss. In Australia, our terrestrial landscapes are not only home to unique biodiversity but also vital reservoirs of resources like minerals, timber, and agricultural products. These landscapes play a pivotal role in our economy, from mining to agriculture. Therefore, the sustainable management and conservation of these ecosystems is not only of environmental consideration but systematic and economic.  

Key Targets of SDG 15 Explained  

Here’s a concise breakdown of some key UN Targets for this goal, specifically relevant to Australian businesses, with real-world examples.

• Target 15.1: Ensure conservation, restoration, and sustainable use of terrestrial ecosystems. 
  • Example: The Australian government’s 20 Million Trees Program aims to re-establish green corridors and urban forests. Businesses involved in land development and agriculture can actively participate in such reforestation initiatives. 

• Target 15.5: Take urgent actions to reduce the degradation of natural habitats, halt the loss of biodiversity, and protect endangered species. 
  • Example: Companies like Bush Heritage Australia, a national non-profit organization, actively work with businesses and the community to buy and manage land. Their goal is to protect unique Australian landscapes and its native species. This serves as a model for businesses looking to invest in or partner with conservation-focused entities. 

• Target 15.7: Take urgent action to end poaching and trafficking of protected species. 
  • Example: Tourism businesses in Australia, like Echidna Walkabout Nature Tours, are increasingly promoting eco-tourism, emphasizing wildlife conservation and generating revenue that directly funds protection initiatives. 

• Target 15.9: Integrate ecosystem and biodiversity values into national and local planning. 
  • Example: Urban developers in cities like Melbourne, as highlighted by the City of Melbourne’s Urban Forest Strategy, are incorporating green spaces and native vegetation into their designs, promoting biodiversity within urban settings. 

Australia and SDG 15

Australia, with its diverse landscapes from dense rainforests to arid deserts, holds a critical position in the global effort to protect life on land. However, pressing challenges such as deforestation, land degradation, and habitat destruction jeopardize our unique biodiversity. The added pressures from climate change and rapid urbanisation make the situation even more urgent.

The Green Economy and Business

Parallel to the ‘Blue Economy’ for marine conservation, there’s a growing emphasis on a ‘Green Economy’ for terrestrial conservation in Australia. This approach focuses on businesses deriving economic growth from sustainable land practices. With policies leaning towards conservation and the rise of ESG (Environmental, Social, Governance) in business considerations, sustainable land management is no longer just an ethical choice but a business imperative. Companies integrating conservation efforts, sustainable sourcing, and green land practices are not only preserving our environment but are also positioning themselves favourably in a market where consumers value eco-responsibility.

Championing SDG 15

Both individuals and businesses have a pivotal role in supporting life on land. Here are some key steps with resources to support you.

SDG 15 as an Individual 

• Educate Yourself: Delve deeper into topics such as deforestation, habitat destruction, and the importance of biodiversity using resources like the World Wildlife Fund’s educational page. 

• Mindful Purchasing: Opt for products made from sustainable materials. Check out guides like Good On You for eco-friendly brands. 

• Support Local: Buying local reduces the carbon footprint of your purchases and often supports more sustainable farming and production practices. Use platforms like Farmers Markets Australia to find local producers. 

• Reduce Meat Consumption: Opt for plant-based meals more often. Livestock farming is a major contributor to deforestation and land degradation. For tips on adopting a plant-based diet, check out resources like Vegan Australia. 

• Chemical Awareness: Check the labels on household and garden products. Avoid those containing harmful chemicals that can damage terrestrial ecosystems. Learn about harmful chemicals in household products and alternatives through guides like Choice’s Chemicals in Household Products review. 

• Contribute to Habitat Rehabilitation: Participate in or support initiatives such as Landcare Australia, which offers various habitat restoration projects, including tree planting. 

SDG 15 in Business 

• Conservation Initiatives: Partner with organizations like the Australian Conservation Foundation to engage in conservation projects or other NGOs or local communities on projects like rewilding or creating urban green spaces.

• Sustainable Sourcing: Use platforms like Supply Chain School to find sustainable suppliers or to enhance your supply chain practices. Ensure you consider suppliers who are certified for sustainable practices. This goes beyond timber – think coffee, cocoa, palm oil, and other commodities.

• Employee Training: Offer experiences like conservation workshops with organizations such as Bush Heritage Australia. You could provide immersive experiences, like conservation field trips or workshops with ecologists, to truly understand the importance of terrestrial conservation.

• Eco-Friendly Packaging: For insights into sustainable packaging, check out resources like Planet Ark’s Business Recycling. Consider innovative materials like mushroom packaging or compostable plastics.

• Collaborate with Experts: Consider organizations like Eco Logical Australia for environmental consulting. Regular consultations with environmental experts can help businesses stay ahead of sustainability trends and regulations.

• Promote a Green Office Environment: Use guides like Sustainable Business Australia’s Green Office Guide for tips on sustainable office practices. You could incorporate indoor plants, use sustainable office supplies, and adopt paperless practices as examples.

• Community Engagement: Support or initiate community gardening projects or urban forestry efforts, promoting local biodiversity. Engage with initiatives like Greening Australia for community-based conservation projects. 

Reflecting on Sustainable Development

Eager to align your business with terrestrial conservation efforts in Australia? 

Let our specialised assessment guide your business in making eco-friendly choices. Let’s collaborate and book a time to chat further! 

Further Insights

• Land Conservation in Australia: A deep dive into sustainable land management practices.
• Innovations in Terrestrial Conservation: Australian Success Stories: Explore businesses at the forefront of land conservation.
• Consumer Trends in Terrestrial Sustainability: Gauge the rising demand for land-friendly products.
• Challenges in Terrestrial Conservation: Understand the obstacles and solutions in land conservation.
• Transitioning to Land-Friendly Business Models: A roadmap for businesses seeking to amplify their conservation efforts.