Scientists at the University of Queensland have developed an app that provides users with information about native endangered species and allows them to step in to protect them.
Users of the Endangered Australians app and website, introduced on Tuesday, will be able to access information about endangered species in their area by entering their zip code.
According to Gareth Kindler, a PhD student at the University of Queensland and an app developer, the tool provides information in an understandable and engaging way. As he said, there is a huge amount of data available about Australia’s biodiversity, but so far it has not been easy for a citizen to access this information.
By entering their zip code, users get a list of endangered animals in their area and the main threats to the species. The app also provides links to contact local politicians to express their concerns.
Researchers say the initiative could spark people’s interest in environmental issues, and that could be important when they go to the polls in the upcoming federal election.
Since immigrants from Europe settled on the continent 200 years ago, more than 90 species of native animals have become extinct. The number of endangered species is increasing year by year, with an estimated 1,700 species of plants and animals on the endangered species list. The koala also became one of them at the beginning of the year, its population declining in recent years.
Professor James Watson, co-founder of the project, highlighted that without intervention, this species is almost certain to become extinct in the next 30 to 50 years. As evidenced by the data, endangered species occur in all circles, which is why this application is no less important than informing the general public. The professor added: These are the globally known species. If they disappear, they cannot be brought back.
(MTI/Xinhua)
