Judy Friedlander

Dr Judy Friedlander has expertise in high-level journalism, academia and sustainability projects. Judy founded the PlantingSeeds’ organisation, whose flagship project is the B&B Highway (Bed & Breakfasts for Bees, Birds and Biodiversity). This educational and practical regenerative program links over 220 schools in urban corridors in three states.

Judy has had an impressive media and journalism career at The Sydney Morning Herald, The Sun-Herald, The Australian, and Channel Nine. Her PhD at the University of Technology Sydney developed expertise in proven strategies for impactful environmental initiatives.

Judy believes that biodiversity issues have long been seen as subsidiary but are finally receiving the vital attention they need – with species loss at an all-time high and practical actions now absolutely imperative. She is also a passionate believer in the ability of urban areas to regenerate and increase biodiversity and has seen first-hand how teaching children knowledge and skills about plants, pollinators, citizen science and the wonders of biodiversity spark hope and empowerment for the future. The PlantingSeeds’ organisation just won one of three inaugural Australian Geographic Awards for Nature.