Unpicking the waratah

A UNSW PhD candidate has led the genetic mapping of the floral emblem of New South Wales, the iconic waratah.

Take a hike this Christmas

As the weather warms up, UNSW researchers name some of their favourite bushwalks and the ways citizen scientists can help them by collecting data along the way.

We can all do our bit on climate change

We often think that it’s up to governments and industry to play a major role in tackling climate change, but is there a role for individuals too?

Plastic litter is a beach

Ten years of citizen science data has informed a UNSW study which found plastic dominates the rubbish found on Australian beaches.

Reefer madness

Artificial reefs are helping the East Australian Current deliver a conveyor belt of food to a ‘wall of mouths’ of baitfish, with benefits for recreational fishers as well as the environment. Now UNSW scientists have uncovered why artificial reefs attract more small foraging fish than natural reefs.

Public health v personal liberty

The COVID restrictions governments have put in place to contain the pandemic may safeguard our health but they could also corrode public trust and even the stability of liberal democracies.

What is Delta doing to our mental health?

A UNSW expert on post-traumatic stress and anxiety explains why this year’s lockdown is affecting everyone – and especially vulnerable groups – differently.

The biochar solution

Biochar – a stable, carbon–rich form of charcoal – can boost crop yields in poor soils, retain water and help ameliorate the effects of climate change, so why aren’t we using it more?

A voyage through our changing ocean

Scientists have studied the impacts of a warmer, stronger East Australian Current on marine life during a voyage along the east coast.

Carpe diem

The recent one in 100 flood event may deal a blow to European carp eradication efforts in the Murray-Darling basin.

May cause side effects

A UNSW researcher says a positive social media campaign could help to counter misinformation and fears about COVID vaccine side effects and boost vaccination uptake.

Can positive psychology change the world?

An open mind, an open heart and clear thinking are three core capabilities that underlie wise action and can help people and groups change the world for the better.