Saving the world, one step at a time

World Environment Day is coming up this month and your planet needs you.
Landcare groups all over Sydney are preparing for June 5 with residents asked to volunteer for local environment initiatives.

Celebrities are getting in on the act, with The Living End, Gyroscope, Layne Beachley, Erin McNaught and Carson Kressley joining the effort.

Landcare and Coastcare groups are looking for volunteers to help with animal rescue, educating others on environmental issues, making urban areas more “green”, and administration or fundraising.

Landcare chief executive Brian Scarsbrick said tackling huge environmental issues like climate change, salinity, erosion and loss of biodiversity begins at grassroots level.

“Real and lasting change always begins with a group, or even one person, saying ‘yes, I can help’ and many people making small changes can be monumental at a national level,” Mr Scarsbrick said. “I hope everyone will use this initiative to really think about how they can help and what they can offer – even if it’s something small.”

Those who register will get free subscription to the soon-to-launch Australian Landcare electronic magazine and go into the draw to win a Fraser Island holiday.

After June 5, a list of the people who have registered and what skills they are offering will be provided to the relevant local council. Councils who recruit the most volunteers will win $5000 towards a community environment event.

Last year, Waverley Council’s World Environment Day celebrations at the Bondi Pavilion included whale watching, exhibitions and workshops. Attractions included eco-businesses giving hands on advice, green living workshops, gardening and fun activities for the kids.

For information on what Waverley Council will be doing this year visit www.waverley.nsw.gov.au

To register for Landcare project go to www.yourplanetneedsyou.com.au

– By Ben Storey