A former Greens leader who lost his seat in an election upset is headed to greener pastures.

Adam Bandt will become the Australian Conservation Foundation's next CEO, officially abandoning further electoral pursuits with the Greens to take up the new role.

"It is a true privilege to help lead Australia's most respected voice for nature and climate at such a critical time," he said.

"Climate collapse is beginning, nature is in crisis and this is the parliament that can avoid extinction.

"We're setting politicians a test we hope they meet."

Mr Bandt's 15-year career in federal politics was cut short after the May election, when the size of Labor's landslide win, supported by a significant collapse in the coalition's vote, helped hand Labor candidate Sarah Witty a shock victory.

The Gre

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