Issue 255

After May’s UN summary report on biodiversity loss declared nature’s dangerous decline was ‘unprecedented’ and species extinction rates were ‘accelerating’, here we feature some of our work identifying the problems – and solutions.

Going in to bat for Australia’s endangered flying-foxes

Another Australian mammal has been listed as endangered. The spectacled flying-fox highlights the challenge in managing the conflict between human development and nature.

An artificially intelligent answer to threatened species

Conservation practices haven't progressed fast enough to meet the enormity of the environmental challenges. AI could be part of the answer to improve species detection methods and advise on better conservation approaches.

Invasive species are Australia’s number-one extinction threat

More than 1,770 species in Australia are listed as threatened or endangered. Invasive species are the biggest single threat.

Paving the way for climate change adaptation

In the face of climate change, how do we support terrestrial and oceanic ecosystems to adapt, while accelerating decision-making to create sustainable pathways for the future?

Biodegradable versus compostable – knowing your eco-plastics

As the world moves to ban single-use plastics, biodegradable plastics are increasingly in focus as an environmentally friendly alternative. However, some plastics degrade into microplastics, others take ages to disappear from the environment, and in certain conditions they produce powerful greenhouse gases.

Plastic trash – it’s not all at sea

While the plastic trash swirling around in our oceans gets most of the attention, new evidence shows that the solutions lie along our shoreline.

recycled plastics in small chips and separated, green on left and red on right

The second life of plastics

The problem of plastic is central to creating a circular economy. So, what is science doing to drive innovation. Introducing: The second life of plastics.