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Harmful Algal Bloom and Human Wellbeing Impact
The harmful algal bloom (HAB) affecting our coastal waters in recent months is more than an environmental problem, it’s a public health, economic, and community wellbeing crisis. Its effects are rippling through coastal communities, disrupting livelihoods in fisheries, aquaculture, and tourism while posing direct threats to physical health, from respiratory irritation to eye and skin discomfort. Hear what our Environment Institute members have said.
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Two Environment Institute Members Win 2025 Young Tall Poppy Science Awards
We’re proud to share that Environment Institute researchersDr Georgina FalsterandDr Nina Woottonhave been recognised withSouth Australia’s 2025 Young Tall Poppy Science Awards! Dr Falster studies how Australian droughts are changing by tracing shifts in the water cycle using climate data and isotopes. Dr Wootton investigates the impacts of plastic pollution on seafood species and works with industry to drive sustainable change.
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An 'Underwater Bushfire' Sparks Urgent Calls Urgent Calls for Action in South Australia
Environment Institute Members are at the forefront of the algal bloom crisis, with the federal government announcing $14 million funding packing to help South Australia.We are fortunate enough to house leading expert researchers that have been on the front foot to inform the media and government about about the impacts and implications of the agal bloom.
Uncovering The Truth About Sea Snakes
ABC’s brand new nature series 'Dr Ann’s Secret Lives' follows presenter Dr Ann as she ventures into the wild with leading scientists to uncover the fascinating and often hidden behaviours of some of the world’s most elusive creatures. In Episode 2,Dr Ann joins Associate Professor , Dr , and their team in Dampier Marine Park to explore the secret lives of these mysterious marine reptiles.
NEST Planting Day Success
We’re proud to have supported the first event through NEST this past weekend, an inspiring day of hands-on conservation, community connection, and collaborative learning. Over 2000 rare and endangered plants were successfully planted across 16 properties, restoring swamps and riparian zones with the help of 35+ student and researcher volunteers and 30+ landholders.
Tickets Now Available for the International Symposium on Green Urban Futures
Registration is now open for the International Symposium on Green Urban Futures, taking place at the National Wine Centre in ˲Ʊ, South Australia, on 3–4 December 2025. Presented by the Environment Institute, in partnership with Green ˲Ʊ and Treenet, the symposium is chaired by Professor Veronica Soebarto, initiative lead of Green Urban Futures and Planetary Health at the Environment Institute.
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100 Years of 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.
What Border Seizures Tell Us About the Transnational Shark Trade
Environment Institute members Dr Patrick Reis-Santos, Professor Phill Cassey, Professor Bronwyn Gillanders, and PhD Candidate Josephine Lingard looking at the transnational shark trade, showing what they've uncovered as a cause for concern.With over one-third of shark species now threatened with extinction, largely due to overfishing and international trade, this study provides new insights into the personal use trade of shark products through Australia and Aotearoa, New Zealand.
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Applying the IUCN Species Conservation Cycle in Australia
At the IUCN Species Survival Symposium, Dr Jess Marsh co-led a workshop and joined a panel discussion focused on applying the IUCN species conservation cycle—assess, plan, and act—to support national conservation efforts.These three steps work together: assessing species' status, planning tailored strategies, and—most critically—acting on the ground to deliver conservation outcomes. Each step is essential to preventing extinction, especially for data-poor or hyper-diverse taxa like fungi and invertebrates.
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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.
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