Habitat Heroes website launches for eco-kids

A new website for children to meet up and discuss the environment launched earlier this month.

Habitat Heroes was set up by Australian mum Sharon Lowe after she struggled to find a child-friendly eco-education website for her seven year old daughter.

“The core of Habitat Heroes was formed around values my husband and I wish to instill in our children,” Lowe said.

“The idea came about from trying to find websites for my seven-year-old daughter that would educate her as well as being fun.”

On the site children can sign up to adopt an animal from an endangered species, play games, and communicate with other eco-conscious kids in a safe, monitored environment.

Site members can also choose an avatar pet to represent them on the site, and can create a habitat for their avatar to live in.

“I wanted to create an online destination where children could learn about these fundamentally important issues through things they enjoy, such as games and activities,” said Lowe.

Environmental groups in Australia have welcomed the site.

Annie Wearne, outreach coordinator at the Australian Conservation Foundation, said: “There are not many resources out there for kids that are fun, free and educational.

“This site is a great way for children to learn about the complexities of the marine environment, especially here in Australia, where we have so much diversity and so many environmental challenges.”