2021
![Aerial photo of a golf course on Norfolk Isalnd](https://i0.wp.com/ecos.csiro.au/wp-content/uploads/2021/10/Emily-Bay-Golf-Course_Rob-Ryan-photographer-scaled.jpg?resize=385%2C256&ssl=1)
Shoring up Norfolk Island’s water supply
On Norfolk Island, conserving water has been a way of life for generations. But when the island faced a water emergency in 2019-20, it became clear the natural water balance was changing. A detailed study of the island’s water resources is revealing what’s behind the change and how the island might strengthen its future water resilience.
![Bushfire burns dangerously close to residential property](https://i0.wp.com/ecos.csiro.au/wp-content/uploads/2016/01/highexposure.jpg?resize=385%2C256&ssl=1)
Protecting your grand designs from turning to ashes
As we head into another bushfire season, a new online guide offers advice on building and retrofitting homes for bushfire resilience.
![](https://i0.wp.com/ecos.csiro.au/wp-content/uploads/2020/12/Post-Kosciuszko-fire5-scaled.jpg?resize=385%2C256&ssl=1)
Ten steps to increasing bushfire resilience
A Queensland bushfire resilience guide for homeowners was named a state finalist in the Resilient Australia Awards in Brisbane on October 6, 2021. We step through the guide's top tips.
![A raging Australian bushfire with large flames against a green forest. Image/Flickr](https://i0.wp.com/ecos.csiro.au/wp-content/uploads/2021/09/41241063925_8d1d9a5c91_k.jpg?resize=385%2C256&ssl=1)
Why hazard reduction burning is no smokescreen
Used alongside other fire management approaches, hazard reduction burning can reduce the impact of bushfire on property and loss of life.
![Interior of a kitchen and living room](https://i0.wp.com/ecos.csiro.au/wp-content/uploads/2021/09/LightHouse-renovation-to-Vasey-House-photo-by-Ben-Wrigley-scaled.jpg?resize=385%2C256&ssl=1)
It’s in the stars! How scientists figure out your home’s energy rating
For nearly 70 years, CSIRO scientists have been working on the science behind the 10-star energy ratings for homes in Australia. We look at how CSIRO’s tools are used in the Nationwide House Energy Rating Scheme, and the science behind the stars.
![](https://i0.wp.com/ecos.csiro.au/wp-content/uploads/2021/09/Microsoft-Healthy-Country_10.png?resize=385%2C256&ssl=1)
How healthy country AI is delivering on-ground benefit
Digital technology can help Indigenous rangers adaptively manage their lands. But it's critical that these tools are co-designed by Traditional Owners to ensure that they deliver benefit back to Indigenous communities. A collaboration called Healthy Country AI is helping to do just that.
![Close up of an echidna in a landscape of short grass.](https://i0.wp.com/ecos.csiro.au/wp-content/uploads/2021/09/echidna_Carwoola_RichardWild-scaled-e1632783291757.jpg?resize=385%2C256&ssl=1)
The best place for citizen science is wherever you are
You might not be living in a biodiversity hotspot, but the plants, animals and fungi around you matter! By recording them, you can contribute to citizen science.
![Two seabirds flying in a blue sky.](https://i0.wp.com/ecos.csiro.au/wp-content/uploads/2021/09/Australasian-Gannet-04384_Eric-Woehler.jpg?resize=385%2C256&ssl=1)
Studying seabirds: recording biodiversity above ocean waves
Scientists on research vessel Investigator are tackling the challenge of studying seabirds that spend much of their life at sea.
![aerial view of prawn trawler out at sea](https://i0.wp.com/ecos.csiro.au/wp-content/uploads/2021/09/NPF-prawn-trawler-drone-shot-AFMA.jpg?resize=385%2C256&ssl=1)
A helping hand (book) for managing fisheries through change
A new evidence-based handbook will help Australian fisheries respond to climate change to ensure sustainable seafood stocks.