Empowering tomorrow's conservation leaders

Katie Broadfoot – QLD Young Leader

Throughout the event, there were presentations, panels, workshops and more that demonstrated the different people and groups that are currently taking action to support and protect the unique environment we have here in Australia.

As a speaker on the Young Sustainability Leaders in Action Panel, I got to share the work and experiences that I have had as both a student in the marine field and as an intern at OzFish. Seeing such passion and positivity directed toward environmental conservation from other young people was an absolute joy and was truly infectious. I plan to take the inspiring stories I heard and use them to inform my work as a Project Officer at OzFish.

Claudia Parker – WA Young Leader

Jordan Dwyer, from the Department of Climate Change, Energy, the Environment and Water (DCCEEW), shed light on Australia’s Sustainable Ocean Plan. The plan aims to protect, restore, and adapt ecosystems while addressing the ocean’s crucial role in absorbing greenhouse gases and future energy resources.

He emphasised the need for greater youth involvement in the decision-making process, highlighting that although young people are the largest demographic, they are often the least heard.

The more research that is conducted, the more innovative projects are born, with hopes to reduce our environmental footprint. Piping Hot Brand and Marketing Director, Amy Low, exposed the niche impacts of fashion on our environment. Clothing material is a significant indicator of sustainability and opting for natural fibres washed infrequently is key in reducing microplastic shedding.

Cass Monckton – NSW Young Leader

Lottie Dalziel, founder of Banish, shared her experience establishing the BRAD (Banish Recycling and Disposal) program. This is where people can send Lottie their hard-to-recycle items through the post, such as razors or blister packs. She breaks them down into their recyclable components, and sends them to recycling plants in bulk.

Lottie said, “Aim for progress, not perfection… it is just about starting, and you learn so much along the way… focus on what you can control and not what you can’t.”

This is a strong reminder not to become lost in the environmental problems that are beyond your capacity to overcome and to focus on the smaller actions you can take, such as remembering your reusable items and taking your difficult recyclables to the post office.

Another poignant message was that “you can work on a farm and protect our oceans at the same time”. Meaning, the land and sea, climate and people are all intrinsically connected. The impact we have on land flows down to the sea.

The Ocean Youth Summit reinforces the interconnectedness of land and sea, climate and people. It reminds us that while challenges may seem daunting, collective action and individual contributions can pave the way for a sustainable and harmonious future for both people and our aquatic wildlife.

Join OzFish today and become a catalyst for real change in preserving and enhancing our diverse aquatic habitats. As a member, you’ll have the opportunity to directly engage in hands-on projects aimed at improving fish habitats in oceans, estuaries, rivers, and beyond.

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Three OzFish Young Leaders share their reflections from the 2024 Ocean Youth Summit. The event highlighted inspiring stories and innovative solutions to ocean and environmental challenges, spearheaded by Australian youth.

He emphasised the need for greater youth involvement in the decision-making process, highlighting that although young people are the largest demographic, they are often the least heard.

Lottie said, “Aim for progress, not perfection… it is just about starting, and you learn so much along the way… focus on what you can control and not what you can’t.”

Another poignant message was that “you can work on a farm and protect our oceans at the same time”. Meaning, the land and sea, climate and people are all intrinsically connected. The impact we have on land flows down to the sea.