People instinctively seek connections with
natural environments, it is called biophilia,
which literally means ‘love of life’
The project team is currently planning projects to run over the next
five years. Ideas include ones that focus on urban parrots, pets,
coastal environments and the nature in all our local parks. All of the
projects will be designed to help people connect with the natural
environment and to share their experiences.
“People instinctively seek connections with natural environments,
it is called biophilia, which literally means ‘love of life’,” continued
Dr Roetman. “The opposite is biophobia, where people worry about
connecting to nature. We want to help people learn about and
connect with nature by getting them involved in citizen science.”
The initiative is called Creating Biophilic Cities through Citizen
Science. Projects will begin in early 2014 and will provide
opportunities for Salisbury residents to get involved, contributing to
science in fun, engaging and educational ways.
“The Biophilic Cities project is just one of a range of ways we’re
taking care of our local environment,” said Mayor Gillian Aldridge.
“Most people would know about our extensive stormwater
harvesting and reuse scheme, including the beautiful wetlands
that we’ve created. We’re installing solar panels on Council-owned
sports club facilities. We have invested in the St Kilda Mangrove
trails and creating biodiversity corridors throughout the city,
connecting the escarpment to the ocean, and creating habitats for
a number of bird, animal and plant species. It’s all part of Council’s
plan to ensure that Salisbury remains a great place for families to
live, well into the future.”
i
If you are interested in being involved as a citizen
scientist, please register your interest online at
www.unisa.edu.au/citizenscience
www.salisbury.sa.gov.au | SALISBURY AWARE | SUMMER 2013 | 15