Australia's renewable energy goals can't come at the cost of biodiversity - we need a strategic approach | Hugh Possingham

The Port of Hastings windfarm block highlights a growing conundrum - how to expand renewable infrastructure without damaging fragile ecosystemsThe recent decision by the environment minister, Tanya Plibersek, to block the development of a "renewable energy terminal" at Port of Hastings in the Western Port wetland east of Melbourne brings into stark focus the increasing tension between two commitments of all Australia's governments - solving the biodiversity crisis and the climate crisis. We need solutions to this conundrum quickly, otherwise there will be lost opportunities, expensive mistakes and even more extinctions.Humanity faces two existential crises. The climate crisis we know well; the second, less appreciated threat to humanity is biodiversity loss. We are only just beginning to appreciate its effects on our economy, agriculture, health and culture.Sign up for Guardian Australia's free morning and afternoon email newsletters for your daily news roundup Continue reading...