Protecting the Daintree

How can we protect the Daintree Rainforest?

The Daintree is the oldest rainforest on Earth. With vines deeply rooted in 20 million years of life, growth and change, it’s no wonder that three different ecosystems are intertwining with one another.

The Daintree is home to the Jabalbina Yalanji People.

Two ecosystems in one

The Daintree is where the rainforest and the beach intersect. It truly is one of the most interesting and unique places, not only in Australia, but in the world.

It’s registered as a UNESCO World Heritage site.

However, the rainforest can face threats, especially after its commercialisation.

What threats does the Daintree face?

The rainforest is threatened by…

• Invasive plant species: Certain plant species have been introduced to the rainforest. These non-natives can sometimes thrive well in the environment. Of course, this is great for the non-native plant…but sometimes, it can take over the native plant life that already exists there.
• Climate change and global warming: Climate change has affected the overall rainfall over the Daintree. The Daintree requires lots of rain every year to thrive and survive (it’s a rainforest, after all!) This reduced rainfall can leave the plant life with less water.
• Feral animals: Pigs, dogs, and cats are wild in the Daintree. They hunt the native animals in the Daintree, which creates dangerous competition for the resources in the rainforest. They can also damage some of the roots of the plant life.

These threats have knock-on effects, and the quality of life for the flora and fauna can be greatly affected by these threats.

Protecting the Daintree Rainforest

There are conservation efforts that are helping to protect the Daintree Rainforest. For example, to help out with the climate change/lessened rainfall issue, controlled droughts are carried out. This is done to help the rainforest get used to the lesser rainfall and adapt to the changing climate.

What can we do to help?

Luckily, there are ways that we can explore the rainforest ethically.

• Travel in the Daintree with ‘leave no trace’ principles
• Make sure you respect your environment
• Be respectful of the Aboriginal culture. The Jabalbina Yalanji People are the traditional custodians of the Daintree Rainforest. Support local businesses, learn about their culture, and respect any Indigenous rules.
• Driving electric vehicles in the National Park to reduce carbon emissions