Written by Squadron Energy |
September marks National Biodiversity Month which is a great time to highlight the role we all can play in preserving and protecting Australia’s incredible natural wonders and diverse ecosystems.
According to the Department of Climate Change, Energy, the Environment and Water:
“Australia is one of a group of only 17 ‘mega-diverse’ countries. These countries cover less than 10% of the world’s area but have more than 70% of its biodiversity. Many of our plants, animals and places are unique and are not found anywhere else in the world."
This National Biodiversity Month, we spotlight the work of Zeina Jokadar, Environmental Advisor at Squadron Energy, to learn more about her role in coordinating initiatives that promote and enhance biodiversity within our projects.
Can you tell us about your background and what led you to pursue a career focused on the environment and biodiversity?
I grew up on the coast, spending most of my free time swimming, snorkeling, and fishing. My curiosity about biodiversity stemmed from experiencing the striking contrast between the underwater world and the land environment.
Initially, I set out to pursue a career in marine science. However, during my university studies, I discovered a Degree in Resource and Environmental Management, which broadened my perspective.
This program made me question how unsustainable resource use was impacting our environment, ultimately affecting our quality of life—both present and future.
Can you tell us a bit about your role at Squadron Energy?
As an Environmental Advisor, I primarily focus on operational projects. I conduct periodic environmental inspections of wind farms to ensure that our operational and maintenance activities do not cause pollution or harm biodiversity. I also oversee specialist monitoring activities and manage land at biodiversity offset sites.
A significant part of my role involves preparing and reviewing reports for regulatory authorities, which requires regular consultation with agencies. Through this process, we develop management plans that are both practical and aligned with our objectives to protect the environment, and in the case of the offset site, to improve local biodiversity.
What biodiversity initiatives are you proud to be working on at the moment?
Managing the Glen Maye biodiversity offset site has been particularly rewarding. It’s fulfilling to see our management activities steadily improving the biodiversity at the site.
We’ve implemented a weed and feral pest management plan, and the benefits of these interventions are already apparent after just one year, with significant new growth of native vegetation. Our weed treatment efforts are reducing competition, allowing native plants to thrive.
Next, I plan to introduce biological controls for weeds, which will offer a more sustainable, long-term management solution.
What is one way you’d encourage others to get involved in biodiversity projects in their region?
Contributing to biodiversity is broader than physically saving animals or planting trees—it's not always about being outdoors in uncomfortable conditions. Biodiversity is influenced by how we use natural resources: the amount of water, energy, and land we consume, the products we buy, how we travel, and what we eat. Ask yourself, “Is there a more sustainable way?” Research alternatives, choose one, and give it a try. You might find it’s neither difficult nor expensive, and it won’t feel like a compromise.
To find out more and learn about how you can celebrate Biodiversity Month every month, visit: https://www.dcceew.gov.au/environment/biodiversity/biodiversity-month
