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Koalas in danger of extinction in Australia
Across much of Australia's eastern coast, koalas are considered endangered as a result of deforestation, bushfires, disease and drought.
Koala populations have declined in much of eastern Australia over the past two decades, according to conservation organizations. This can cause its extinction to approach.
Sussan Ley, the Environment Minister, reported that it has been classified as endangered to provide greater protection in the states of Queensland, New South Wales and the Australian Capital Territory.
He assured that the necessary measures are being taken to protect the koalas. Currently, there is a promise from the Government of an allocation of 50 million Australian dollars (more than 35 million US dollars), to help its preservation.
A decade ago, the world's most recognized symbol of Australia's wildlife, the koala, was classified as vulnerable on the east coast.
Stuart Blanch, conservation specialist for WWF-Australia, indicated that despite the declaration that koalas are in danger of extinction, support is needed to avoid it. This could be the creation of a stronger law and some aid for the protection of forests.
According to figures from an independent government agency called the Scientific Committee for Endangered Species, it shows that between 2001 and 2021, the koala population fell from 185,000 to 92,000.
possible disappearance
A member of the Humane Society International, Alexia Wellbelove, indicates that, if no extreme measures are taken, the koalas could disappear in the year 2050. He insists that the felling of forests must be completely prohibited.
The Australian Conservation Foundation conducted studies and show that the felling of more than 25,000 hectares of koala habitat was approved by the federal government. This decision was made after declaring the species vulnerable.
Basha Stasak, head of the foundation, said Australia's environmental laws are ineffective and will not stop the destruction of koala habitat in Queensland and New Wales for a decade. At that time the species was supposed to be protected.
He also assured that these places should be prevented from continuing to be damaged by mining, industrial logging, agricultural and real estate projects.
In 2019 and 2020, devastating fires were experienced in the country, another threat to animals in addition to drought, diseases, dog attacks, car crashes, and felling of trees.
