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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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Exciting discovery in the Flinders Ranges!
We’re thrilled to share that a new prehistoric fossil, Quaestio Simpson Aurum, has been discovered at Nilpena Ediacara National Park, dating back over 500 million years!
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Trees are not the problem: a holistic approach to reverse deforestation
In the fight against deforestation, it's crucial to look beyond just the trees. Ignoring human factors and systemic issues can leave us directionless in addressing this pressing challenge.
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Exciting times as Australia hosts the inaugural Global Nature Positive Summit in Sydney
As biodiversity loss and ecosystem collapse threaten our planet and economic stability, this Summit (held on 7 to 8 October) gathers leaders from government, business, academia, environmental groups, and Indigenous Peoples to forge a nature positive path for the future.
Innovative groundwater project in the Riverland
Exciting developments are underway at Century Orchards in Loxton, where a new reverse-osmosis (RO) plant has been installed to explore sustainable groundwater use. This project aims to relieve pressure on the Murray River while harnessing the significant potential of underground water resources in the Murray-Darling Basin.
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Reviving ecological superheroes: the Angasi Oysters of Coffin Bay
Coffin Bay on South Australia’s Eyre Peninsula is witnessing a remarkable community-driven initiative to restore the native angasi oyster population, once a vital part of our marine ecosystem.
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