Publications

Walker, J 2023, 'Ecological limits' in Dictionary of Ecological Economics, Edward Elgar Publishing, pp. 152-152.
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Walker, J 2023, 'Entropic dissipation' in Dictionary of Ecological Economics, Edward Elgar Publishing, pp. 192-193.
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Riley, S 2023, 'The Most Unwanted: Pest, Feral, Invasive Alien, Biosecurity Risk', Australian Environment Review, vol. 37, no. 10, pp. 194-199.
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The phrase, “the most unwanted” comes from a website hosted by the New South Wales (NSW) Department of Primary Industries (DPI), that deals with “non-native pest animals”. In Australia, managing unwanted species traditionally relies on the use of lethal methods, an approach that from at least the 19th century, has polarised public opinion. Recent media reports reveal increasing disagreement among conservationists, farmers and animal advocates, with the latter arguing that killing, particularly aerial shooting is inherently cruel, while conservationists and farmers consider that environmental and economic benefits outweigh any perceived cruelty. This article provides an introduction to the debate, commencing with an overview of the regulatory regime. While unwanted species need to be managed, the issue is whether wholesale killing (killing to waste) is appropriate. Current processes certainly make it easier to kill unwanted animals, but do so by glossing over animal welfare concerns and do not necessarily improve long term environmental management.