How dingoes sculpt the landscape of the Australian desert

A new study by UNSW scientists has shown how the presence – and absence – of dingoes affects the desert landscape.

Feral cats threaten endangered possums

New evidence has raised concerns about the possibility of feral cats preying upon the critically endangered Leadbeater’s possum, with a cat detected on cameras at two nest boxes used by the possums.

Our ocean wilderness is rapidly disappearing

An international study led by University of Queensland scientists has found that only 13 per cent of the ocean can still be classified as wilderness, untouched by commercial shipping, sediment runoff and fishing.

Top 7 eco-friendly backyard ideas

Gardens can offer a valuable haven for wildlife as well as people, replenishing the local environment rather than acting as another drain on natural resources.

How the ‘yeah-but’ mentality stalls progress on bag bans and other green issues

Meet the ‘Yeah-buts’ – those who know plastic is bad for the environment, but can’t get behind the bag ban because it affects their own convenience. This mindset can stall the best-laid green plans to help save the planet.

The Great Barrier Reef is not bouncing back – but there is hope

The Great Barrier Reef is losing its ability to recover from disturbances, but effective local management could revive its capacity to bounce back.

Fighting the ‘white cancer’ threatening global food security

Researchers have made a ‘game changing’ shift in our understanding of how plants succumb to high levels of salt in agricultural soils.

The case for introducing rhinos to Australia

Would you pay to see rhinos in Australia’s savannas and forests? It’s not as outlandish as it sounds – and it could help save the world’s few remaining rhino populations.

Why plastic bag bans triggered such a huge reaction

Despite the obvious benefits of reducing litter and waste, the removal of single use plastic bags from supermarkets has sparked a hostile reaction from some shoppers.

Australia’s newest snake may already be endangered

The ink has barely dried on a scientific paper describing a new species of snake, yet the reptile may already be in danger of extinction due to mining. A team of biologists led by The University of Queensland’s Associate Professor Bryan Fry discovered a new species of bandy-bandy snake at Weipa on the west coast of the Cape York Peninsula.

Australian cities need to green up their buildings

Research shows that encouraging greenery on Australia’s city buildings will reduce temperatures as well as create new habitats for wildlife – and human socialising.

Smart city planning can preserve old trees and the wildlife that needs them

The ecological value of old trees is irreplaceable for native Australian fauna. Identifying and preserving these trees in cities through smarter planning strategies is important for local wildlife.