Bushfire survivors praise court challenge

Bushfire survivors praise environmental court challenge
Bushfire Survivors for Climate Action have praised environmental justice groups for launching a fresh Federal Court challenge today, arguing that the Environment Minister can and must consider the impacts of climate change in assessing new coal and gas projects. Environmental Justice Australia and the Environment Council of Central Queensland are challenging the decision of the Environment Minister to not reconsider the assessment criteria of three new coal projects.

Ancient mycorrhizal fungi could be missing link in carbon cycle
New research from Western Sydney University published today reveals that ancient fungi networks soak up the equivalent of more than a third (36%) of the world’s annual carbon emissions from fossil fuels. The researchers highlighted the importance of this discovery as the missing link in the carbon cycle, but also that it shows we need to practice less deforestation which in turn disrupts these underground networks as well as life above ground.

EPA research shows contaminants in recycled water
Is treated wastewater safe? New research from the Environmental Protection Authority Victoria, found wastewater treatment removes a lot of particles, but some contaminants remain. While it’s not enough to affect human health, effects on the environment are uncertain. The study found 180 chemicals in treated wastewater including pharmaceuticals, industrial chemicals, and personal care products.

Reintroduced endangered animals poorly unequipped
Breeding threatened mammals in fenced, predator-free areas is a common conservation strategy in Australia. The method is designed to protect vulnerable species and breed animals for release into the wild. But new research from the University of Western Australia found these animals lost traits they need to detect and escape predators.

Suncorp goes electric
Insurance and banking company Suncorp has announced their plan to roll out electric vehicles (EVs) within its corporate fleet. In a statement, Suncorp said that transitioning to EVs is vital to decarbonising its business operations.

Coal mine seeks approval for another 9 years of operations
Maules Creek Coal Mine could produce coal for nine more years than initially outlined, if mining giant Whitehaven Coal gets approval to continue operations to 2043.

Sea World and DAF rescues young whale from shark net
A humpback whale has been rescued after being caught in shark nets off the Gold Coast only one week into the official migration season. The rescue was a combined effort from Sea World and the Queensland Department of Agriculture and Fisheries.