Common Aussie mistake in last-minute Christmas rush: 'Serious consequences'
With the big day just days away, environmentalists are urging Aussies to think carefully at the checkout.
Australians are being reminded to steer clear of inadvertently gifting an invasive species this Christmas, as shoppers rush to stores to buy last-minute presents.
Speaking to Yahoo News Australia, the Invasive Species Council's Jack Gough this holiday season "we're asking everyone to pick native, not invasive for Christmas".
Whether it's plants or pets, Gough said it's important to ensure what you're buying won't harm Australia's fragile and unique landscape.
"Plants make great gifts but ... instead of buying English ivy which is choking out our environment, why not buy a beautiful creeping grevillea instead," he told Yahoo.
"Unsuspecting shoppers are unaware they are giving a ticking time bomb which could have serious environmental consequences when planted in a garden."
Australians often unwittingly harming environment
The gardening industry is responsible for introducing 94 per cent of non-native plant species into the country, Gough warned.
Stark warning after Aussies share incredible 40kg find on popular beach
Expert takes aim at ABC series for suggesting Aussies eat cane toads
Residents urged to target 'highly invasive' weed taking over gardens
"Cats can make a great gift but people often aren't ready for the responsibility. Too often cats are allowed to roam or even dumped, which can have a catastrophic impact on our environment," he said.
"This is something we saw during COVID when a spike in pet ownership resulted in a surge in cat abandonment, leading to more cats in shelters and on our streets. Every year, more than 300 million native animals are killed by free-roaming cats, often due to irresponsible pet ownership."
Gough said "if you have a cat it's your responsibility" to keep it contained. "That's why we and other wildlife groups across the country are keen for clear rules that mean pet cats are kept safe at home and not out killing our wildlife," he said.
"In particular in NSW in WA as outdated laws mean Councils aren't able to implement cat containment or curfew laws." Gough said gifting non-invasive alternatives encourage awareness and responsible consumer behaviour.
It’s a chance to educate others on the importance of protecting native biodiversity. Managing invasive species incurs significant costs, such as removing infestations, restoring habitats, or compensating for lost agricultural productivity. In Australia alone, invasive species cost billions of dollars annually.
Love Australia's weird and wonderful environment? 🐊🦘😳 Get our new newsletter showcasing the week’s best stories.
