Australia Zoo launches NFT project to help protect wildlife and wild places

The Irwin family have taken a major step in their fight for wildlife conservation, as they launch a huge project for the zoo’s 20th anniversary.

The Irwin family are taking their passion for wildlife conservation to the crypto world with the launch of its first non-fungible token (NFT) project.

In partnership with Australian-based technology startup Meadow Labs, the rare NFT project will consist of a series of digital artworks that can be purchased by the public, with each art focusing on a different Australia Zoo “Wildlife Warriors” animal.

The project will be raising awareness and funds to protect Australia’s wildlife and wild places, a cause close to the heart of the Irwin family.

An NFT is a unique digital asset stored on a digital ledger (blockchain) that can be sold or traded.

Each token, which can take different forms including a digital image or video, is uniquely identifiable. However, unlike Bitcoin or cryptocurrency, NFTs cannot be replicated.

The new NFT project will help the zoo in their conservation efforts. Picture: Australia Zoo

Robert Irwin, who helps run the family business on Queensland's Sunshine Coast with his sister Bindi and mum Terri, said the new venture will help continue their “Wildlife Warriors mission”.

“Any innovation that can help our conservation efforts, particularly one that shares our vision of protecting the planet, is something we’re thrilled to support,” the 18-year-old said.

“This green chain and new technology allows us a new avenue to continue to fight for the protection of our wildlife and wild places.”

Created with blockchain technology provider Algorand, the limited NFT series is being launched to mark the 20th anniversary of Australia Zoo’s Wildlife Warriors.

Each digital artwork purchased will be unique. Picture: Australia Zoo

All proceeds will be donated towards Australia Zoo and Wildlife Warriors conservation efforts.

“It's fantastic to see Australia Zoo and Meadow Labs bring wildlife conservation fundraising to the Algorand blockchain,” Head of Communities Australia for Algorand Foundation, Adriana Belotti said.

“I'm sure that collecting these NFTs will resonate with everyone who has a soft spot for the iconic Aussie wildlife, both here and abroad.”

For more information for the first NFT release, and to secure a spot to buy ahead of the public mint, an exclusive “Allow List” visit australiazoonfts.com to sign up.

Originally published as Australia Zoo launches NFT project to help protect wildlife and wild places