News: South Australia
South Australia Paving the Way to Reduce Plastic Pollution
South Australia has become the first place in the world to ban single-use plastic soy sauce containers, marking a major step in the fight against plastic pollution. Dr Nina Wootton, Environment Institute member, welcomed the move, highlighting the dangers of “convenience packaging” that is too small to recycle effectively. She hops other Australian states will adopt similar bans, positioning South Australia as a global leader in tackling single-use plastics.
[Read more about South Australia Paving the Way to Reduce Plastic Pollution]
Oyster Reef Restoration: Your Chance to Contribute
Oyster reef restoration is looking like the answer we need to combat the Harmful Algal Bloom (HAB), and now you have the chance to help. Environment Institute Future Making Fellow Dr Dominic McAfee recently spoke with ABC Radio Adelaide to discuss this great initiative in partnership with OzFish Adelaide Chapter, and how volunteering to make oyster baskets will help the Port River flourish once again.
[Read more about Oyster Reef Restoration: Your Chance to Contribute ]
Steps to Clean Up the Algal Bloom
Around 30% of SA’s coastline is being impacted by a harmful algal bloom driven by heatwaves, nutrient run-off, and upwelling events. According to Environment Institute members Dr Dominic McAfee and Prof Sean Connell, the bloom is far too widespread for large-scale chemical, physical, or microbial trials. Instead, prevention and resilience are key. Oysters in affected areas are feeding on algae, mussels are cleared of toxins, and SA has committed to restoring 15 hectares of shellfish reefs. As climate change fuels more marine heatwaves and floods, HABs will return. Investing in oyster reef restoration and nature-based solutions could future-proof our coasts.
100 Years of The Koonamore Project
The Koonamore Project based in The TGB Osborne Vegetation Reserve at Koonamore, is celebrating its 100th Anniversary year this year, and which makes it the oldest long term ecological study in Australia and one of the oldest in the world. The site is a clear demonstration of the capacity of recovery in Australian arid ecosystems, even after extreme degradation.
How South Australia's Algal Bloom Is Threatening Marine Life and Public Health
Environment Institute members have expressed concern over the toxic algal bloom affecting South Australia's coastline. Professor Justin Brookes highlighted that while algae play a crucial role in marine ecosystems, the current Karenia mikimotoi bloom is toxic and spreading rapidly due to warm temperatures and nutrient-rich waters. Future Making Fellow Dr Dominic McAfee described the event as an “underwater bushfire,” urging a coordinated response similar to land-based natural disasters. Both experts emphasised the need for continued monitoring and proactive measures to protect marine life and coastal communities.
[Read more about How South Australia's Algal Bloom Is Threatening Marine Life and Public Health]
South Australian Biodiversity Under Threat from Ongoing Drought Crisis
Three Environment Institute members have featured in The Guardian, shedding light on how South Australia’s historic dry spell is impacting ecosystems. Dr Stefan Caddy-Retalic spoke on widespread tree dieback across the Adelaide Hills, Dr Jess Marsh raised alarms for the critically endangered Kangaroo Island assassin spider, and Dr Katja Hogendoorn warned of a looming collapse in native bee populations.
[Read more about South Australian Biodiversity Under Threat from Ongoing Drought Crisis]
Sprigg Ediacaran fossil collection recognised by the International Commission on Geoheritage
Diego García-Bellido Capdevila of the University of Adelaide’s Environment Institute was key to securing global recognition for the Sprigg Ediacaran fossil collection. Now among the top 11 geological collections worldwide, it offers vital insights into the origins of complex life on Earth.
What do new draft guidelines for ‘forever chemicals’ mean for Australia’s drinking water?
The Australian National Health and Medical Research Council (NHMRC) has released draft guidelines for acceptable levels of per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) in drinking water.
Exciting research on crop topping pulses in South Australia
Researchers from the University of Adelaide, led by Jenna Malone, and supported by the South Australian Grain Industry Trust (SAGIT), are embarking on critical trials to investigate reduced rates of paraquat for crop topping lentils and faba beans.
[Read more about Exciting research on crop topping pulses in South Australia]
The bunker dilemma: Navigating safety in bushfire-prone regions
As bushfire seasons intensify across Australia, the discussion surrounding safety measures for residents in high-risk areas becomes increasingly critical.
[Read more about The bunker dilemma: Navigating safety in bushfire-prone regions]
Newsletter & social media
Join us for a sensational mix of news, events and research at the Environment Institute. Find out about new initiatives and share with your friends what's happening.