Echidna Conservation Science Initiative - Echidna CSI

Dr Phillipa McCormack on Reforming Australia’s Outdated Environment Laws

Environment Institute Future Making Fellow Dr Phillipa McCormack co-authored a recent article for The Conversation, outlining key recommendations for how Australia’s environment laws should be reformed. The Albanese Government has indicated it is close to striking a deal with the Coalition on new environmental laws, which must deliver substantial improvements. In the article, they provided various recommendations for the reform, covering topics like an independent watchdog, habitat protection, climate change, First Nations voices, logging, and the need for defined targets.

PFAS Breakthrough: Say Goodbye to the "Forever Chemical"

Research led by Dr Cameron Shearer is pioneering new ways to break down PFAS, the persistent “forever chemicals” polluting soil and water. Dr Shearer and his team have found that light-activated catalyst technology can degrade PFAS into harmless compounds, offering a sustainable approach for environmental remediation and safer communities. The work is also featured in the new PFAS and Microplastic Capability Statement, highlighting pollution detection, degradation technologies, and sustainable chemical solutions.

Bandi Bushcare Awarded Nature Foundation Habitat Restoration and Protection Award

The Bandi Bushcare project, led by the Friends of Brownhill Creek members Dr Jamin Packer, Environment Institute member, and Dr Rosslyn (Rossi) von der Boch were awarded Gold award for the Nature Foundation Habitat Restoration and Protection Award. Their project titled “Bandi Bushcare: Habitat Restoration and Protection in Wirraparinga-Brownhill Creek” promotes a community of volunteers that protect and create habitat for the endangered southern brown bandicoot (marti) in the Brownhill Creek Recreation Park.