News: sustainability
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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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.
[Read more about Exciting news for climate adaptation in the Murray-Darling Basin!]
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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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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