Finding real and practical solutions to the world’s environmental problems was the key item on the agenda at the IUCN Environmental Law Academy’s 2017 Conference. Environmental scholars from all around the world attended the conference, along with representatives from the Australian Centre for Agriculture and Law.

We recently caught up with Vivek, who told us all about the paper he presented at the conference, which was held on the idyllic Mactan Island in the Philippines.

Vivek Nename

Vivek Nemane

Vivek spoke about the implementation of natural resources law in peri-urban areas. This topic is particularly timely as the recent census data indicates 7 out of 10 Australians live in our capital cities. As the population in these cities is so high, this in turn means, many of us live in peri-urban areas in both Australia and overseas. These are geographical locations which are on the periphery of both rural areas and highly populated urban areas. Some known examples of peri-urban areas are localities around Western Sydney and places surrounding Brisbane, from the Gold Coast to the Sunshine Coast.

Interestingly, these peri-urban areas offer an ideal home for many of Australia’s invasive species. Invasive species such as foxes and rabbits thrive in these areas, as they have access to bushland whilst being able to scavenge for food scraps and other leftovers. These ‘goodies’ are readily available when there is a large human population.

Rural landholders generally have a good understanding of the environmental impacts invasive species can have. This can be in contrast to the reduced understanding of urbanised residents who are living on the periphery of these rural areas. This difference in experience and understanding can lead to land management conflicts. In addition, the laws and regulations for both rural and urban areas can clash.

Vivek is passionate about these issues because of his background in biosecurity and bio- terrorism law. Biosecurity law encompasses many areas, such as health, environment and human security law. In fact, if we don’t protect our biosecurity, this will have a significant, if not devastating, impact on future generations.

Apparently, Australia and New Zealand are really switched on when it comes to biosecurity laws. Australia has good processes and is highly regulated in this area as opposed to other countries.

As part of the conference proceedings, Vivek was invited to create a visual representation on how to protect the environment.

Vivek Nename's visual representation of a drone flying over a beach

Vivek’s IUCN graphic submission

Vivek focused on the importance of using technological innovation when protecting the environment. Drones are used for security, so why not use drones to help protect the environment? In effect, Vivek is suggesting drones could be used to keep an eye on areas of high environmental value. Vivek portrayed himself sitting on the beach whilst watching a drone overhead. Vivek acknowledges the help of Malaquias Bartiquin, a law student from the University of Cebu for helping with this effort.

Overall, Vivek notes protecting the environment is a responsibility we all must share! It is not only governments who should be tasked with this responsibility!