Hungry bugs and bioplastics

Scientists are working with microbes found in Australia’s unique ecosystem to create bioplastics which break down in land, soil and water. The research aims to tackle one of the most pressing global issues – single-use plastic food packaging: a significant feature of the plastic waste crisis and a special focus for Plastic Free July.

Co-infections in young bats may drive coronavirus mutations

New research by the University of Sydney offers important insights into how and when new coronavirus variants arise in bats.

Saving the seas from plastic pollution

A leading expert in the health impacts of plastic pollution and microplastics is calling on the UN to end the use of toxic chemicals in all plastics, cap and reduce plastic production and argues against a treaty focused on waste management and recycling, as part of an international Plastics Treaty.

Feral-free zones spark small mammal boom in the South Australian desert

A 26-year study at the Arid Recovery Reserve reveals how removing invasive predators like cats and foxes triggers a dramatic reshaping of desert small mammal communities.

Rabbit stew

New research finds that domesticated rabbits evolve quickly to match new environments when they escape into the wild and establish feral breeding populations.

Stop deep sea mining before it begins

Deep-sea mining promises critical minerals for the energy transition without the problems of mining on land. It also promises to bring wealth to developing nations. But the evidence suggests these promises are false, and mining would harm the environment.

Smashing news for avocados

The future of smashed avocado might depend on patches of native vegetation preserved alongside farmland, as new Curtin research reveals the hidden role of these habitats in supporting the insects that keep crops – and brunch menus – thriving.

Nature positive, action negative

New research led by Griffith University argues that the term “nature positive” does more to boost greenwashing companies and vote-seeking politicians than nature conservation.

Building soil carbon with beneficial microbes

Field trials conducted at The University of Queensland show microbial biotechnology could be a game-changer for farming with simultaneous benefits for soil regeneration, crop yield and carbon sequestration.

The book of life

Carbon animates the entirety of the living world and though it comprises only a tiny fraction of Earth’s composition, our planet would be lifeless without it.

It is easy being green

Democratic countries tend to be rated as ‘greener’, or more environmentally friendly, compared to other countries, but this may be because they’re shifting the burden of their own pollution overseas, according to Swiss and UK scientists.

A wolf in wolf’s clothing

Humans wiped out North America’s Dire Wolf around 10,000 years ago with the technology of the time, and now people have brought them back to life – after a fashion – in the same way.