Flying Foxes in Australia's Urban Environment

Flying foxes (otherwise known as fruit bats) are very noticeable in urban areas because they often roost in colonies of thousands. Their presence engenders different responses within the community – some positive, some negative. 

Flying foxes roost during the day then fly out at sunset to feed during the night.  Some flying fox roosting areas are permanent camps whereas others may be occupied for a period then abandoned, perhaps to become reoccupied sometime later.

Exhibited Animals in Queensland

The exhibited animals industry comprises “zoos, aquariums, circuses and petting zoos, as well as animals used by magicians and in mobile demonstrations”.  According to the former Department of Primary Industries and Fisheries (DPIF), animal welfare, public safety and pest potential are the main areas of risk involved in keeping animals for exhibition.

A review of the Queensland legislation pertaining to exhibited animals was instigated following the (former) Service Delivery and Performance Commission’s identification, in 2007, of shortfalls in the legislative regime.  The DPIF released the Exhibited Animals Discussion Paper (Discussion Paper) in 2008.  Submissions closed on 30 January 2009.  The legislative review remains under consideration.  

e-Waste

Electronic waste, more generally known as e-waste, is one of the fastest growing waste streams in Australia and throughout the world.  Computers, televisions, printers, photocopiers and mobile phones that have reached end-of-life through being obsolete or broken are all examples of e-waste. 

To date, there has been little recycling of e-waste in Australia so most ends up in landfill where toxins in the e-waste, such as arsenic, cadmium and mercury, may leach out and contaminate the surrounding soil or groundwater and potentially cause health problems.

Many countries, including Australia, the United States, Japan and parts of Canada and Europe, have chosen to address the problem of e-waste through product stewardship.