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DAFF timber testing trial reveals urgent need for stronger illegal logging laws
The results of the Commonwealth Department of Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry’s (DAFF) recent timber testing trial have highlighted critical gaps in the traceability and legality of timber products entering the Australian market. The trial tested 146 timber products from 39 distinct species using advanced scientific techniques such as DNA analysis and stable isotope testing. Shockingly, 25% of the products tested showed inconsistencies with declared species or origin.
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Nature disconnection and eco-anxiety: what’s happening to young people?
A recent study by the University of Adelaide has explored the rise of eco-anxiety and nature disconnection among young people. Analysing 122 research articles, the study highlights how the growing concern about the environment is affecting the mental health of children and young adults.
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Nature’s resilience to bushfires
It’s inspiring to hear about the resilience of the Australian bush following devastating fires. The perspective from the Environment Institute’s Wayne Boardman highlights an important aspect of the ecosystem: that fire is a natural part of its life cycle. Many native plants have evolved to not only withstand fire but to thrive in its aftermath.
Great news from the Pacific region!
The Pacific Academy of Sciences has been officially launched alongside the Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting in Samoa. This new academy aims to be a strong advocate for science, promoting the study and application of natural and social sciences, the humanities, Indigenous Knowledge, and technology for the benefit of the Pacific Islands and beyond.
Exciting news for climate adaptation in the Murray-Darling Basin!
Two northern Victorian Catchment Management Authorities are embarking on a groundbreaking study to assess climate change risks to water resources, supported by over $3 million in Australian Government funding through the CRC program.
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What do new draft guidelines for ‘forever chemicals’ mean for Australia’s drinking water?
The Australian National Health and Medical Research Council (NHMRC) has released draft guidelines for acceptable levels of per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) in drinking water. These chemicals, often referred to as “forever chemicals,” are resistant to degradation and can persist in the environment and accumulate in the human body. The proposed guidelines aim to reduce the maximum allowable levels of four key PFAS chemicals: PFOS, PFOA, PFHxS, and PFBS.
Exciting research on crop topping pulses in South Australia
Researchers from the University of Adelaide, led by Jenna Malone, and supported by the South Australian Grain Industry Trust (SAGIT), are embarking on critical trials to investigate reduced rates of paraquat for crop topping lentils and faba beans. With potential regulatory changes on the horizon, this research aims to identify effective alternatives and ensure sustainable practices for our grain industry.
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Can scientists really bring extinct species back to life?
A thought-provoking discussion on ABC Radio featuring the Environment Institute’s Associate Professor Jeremy Austin from the University of Adelaide. The topic? The recent advancements in de-extinction led by the biotech company Colossal, particularly their efforts to sequence the thylacine genome using well-preserved DNA in the Tasmanian tiger.
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New research highlights the threat of microplastics to dolphins
A recent study has revealed that dolphins in the Gulf of Mexico are inhaling microplastics, raising concerns about potential lung damage and broader implications for marine health. Researchers from the College of Charleston conducted assessments on bottlenose dolphins and found microplastics in their breath, indicating that these particles are pervasive in our oceans.
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Rethinking environmental law: the future of our rivers
In a recent ABC Radio interview with experts on the interplay between law and environmental science, it’s clear our understanding of river ecosystems is evolving.
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