We are all too aware human activity negatively impacts the environment. Most of our negative interaction and impact is irreversible. However, in the fight to save the biodiversity of Sydney waters, scientists successfully reversed the effects of human activity on Crayweed and Sydney’s ocean life. Last year we were introduced to the Crayweed issue. Last week Tim touched base to see how successful The Crayweed Project has been.

The dumping of human waste during the 1980s contributed to the rapid decline of sea life along Sydney’s coast. Crayweed or Phyllospora comosa is a food source and habitat for marine life. Scientists noticed Crayweed did not replenish once the water quality improved. Prompting cause for concern.

The team at Crayweed Project are working to restore and replenish Crayweed. One method of restoration, the team used, is transferring existing Crayweed, using a transportable mat, to the devastated areas along Sydney’s coastline. This proved successful. Restoration did not stop there. Scientists are collectively working to restore this site. PhD candidate Georgina Wood, part of the Crayweed team from the University of New South Wales, is using genetics to develop resilient Crayweed. Ms Wood expects resilient Crayweed will tolerate and cope in a changing environment.

What can you do?

This sounds well and good, but scientists cannot do this alone. It is the creative union of citizen scientists and scientists that will save and protect this imperative seaweed. Lana Kajlich a PhD candidate from the University of New South Wales and part of the Crayweed Project team understands the importance of engaging the community. To ensure the success and protection of this species.

Ms Kajlich is utilising the power of narrative and story-telling to protect and promote science to communities and for communities to become actively involved in science. For it is the union of scientists and communities which will endeavour to protect this beautiful species and all species from human impact.

Want to find out more on Crayweed and how you can help? Listen to the podcast and hear Tim’s interview with Georgina Wood and Lana Kajlich.