Think: Sustainability: Recent Episodes

2SER 107.3

From waste to wealth, and grids to growth, the show digs into the impact of consumption across all areas of life — it tracks the movements, discoveries and technologies making way for a sustainable future.

How do you repopulate a native species in steep decline? Join us on a dive into the front lines of our marine ecosystem to peek through the curtains on Australia’s most romantic animal.

Featuring: Mitchell Brennan, Project Manager of the Sydney Seahorse Project & PhD student at the University of Technology Sydney

Mentioned: Faithful pair bonds in wild seahorses, Hippocampus whitei - Amanda C. J. Vincent A seahorse father makes a good mother - Amanda C. J. Vincent iNaturalist: Sydney Seahorse Project Instagram: Sydney Seahorse Project

Producer & presenter: Lawrence Bull

After reading an online rant about energy use, I took immediate action to radically reduce my carbon emissions. But after two years of chaos, I became worried about my wellbeing. Was I destroying my mind to save my soul?

Featuring: Dr Tania Leimbach, Research Assistant at the School of Communication, University of Technology Sydney. Christina Brauer, Postgraduate Professional Development Learning Designer, University of Technology Sydney

Producer & presenter: Annamarie Reyes Executive producer: Lawrence Bull

When Elliot returned to the office after a brain injury, his colleagues struggled to understand his bizarre behaviour. His experience could help us ignite widespread action on the climate crisis. Featuring Professor Chris Riedy, Associate Director of Learning And Development at the Institute for Sustainable Futures, University of Technology Sydney Mentioned: Antonio Damasio, Professor of Psychology Philosophy and Neurology, University of Southern California Martha C. Nussbaum, Distinguished Service Professor of Law and Ethics, University of Chicago Marshall Ganz, Senior Lecturer in Leadership Organizing and Civil Society, Harvard University Imagining Transformation: Change agent narratives of sustainable futures by Chris Riedy and Sandra Waddock Good Energy: A playbook for screenwriting in the age of climate change The Ministry for the Future by Kim Stanley Robinson This episode was produced and presented by Lawrence Bull

It turns out there really are “good vibes”! Scientists and engineers are decoding the vibrational languages of plants, insects, and other animals. If they succeed, we could reduce the need to water crops and poison insects; we could tell plants to grow quicker and stronger, and even help heal broken bones. Featuring: Dr Sebastian Oberst, Associate Professor at the School of Mechanical and Mechatronic Engineering, University of Technology Sydney Producer & Presenter: Lawrence Bull Music: Epidemic Sound

Climate change doesn’t impact all countries equally, often it is the countries that have contributed the least to the climate crisis that are the most vulnerable to it. In this episode, we focus on one of the main topics on the COP27 Climate Summit agenda- loss and damage. In this special edition of Think: Sustainability, you will also hear from a campaigner attending COP27 about a separate campaign led by Vanuatu advocating for an advisory opinion from the International Court of Justice on human rights and climate change. Featuring: Vishal Prasad, Campaigner, Pacific Islands Students Fighting Climate Change PISFCC Professor James Goodman, a Professor in Social and Political Sciences, University of Technology Sydney Dr Melanie Pill, a Research Fellow at the Institute for Climate, Energy and Disaster Solutions, Australian National University Host: Marlene Even Music: Epidemic Sound

To meet global net zero 2050 targets we need to not only reduce carbon emissions but capture the carbon already within our atmosphere. So, how do we go about this? In this episode, find out about the myriad of ways that carbon can be captured, stored, and repurposed. While it's not a simple task that can be pulled out of thin air, are we on the right track to meet 2050 goals?

Featuring: Dr Alex Thomson, marine ecologist, Climate Change Cluster (C3), Faculty of Science, University of Technology Sydney Professor Peter Ralph, executive director of the Climate Change Cluster (C3), Faculty of Science, University of Technology in Sydney

Host: Marlene Even Production Assistant: Jessie Kay Music: Epidemic Sound

Current climate change predictions means we will see an increase in extreme weather patterns. So what does the inevitable rise in temperature, increase in flooding, hail, and other extreme weather events mean for the future of our houses? In this episode, we look at why you should, and how you can, build resilience into your home. Whether you’re a tenant or a homeowner, building resilience is more about planning for the future or as the scout motto goes; be prepared!

Featuring: Simon Anderson, Director of Anderson Architects Caitlin McGee, Research Director at the Institute for Sustainable Futures University of Technology Sydney

Producer: Melanie Scott Host: Marlene Even Music: Epidemic Sound

Many of us want to see the Great Barrier Reef before it’s too late. There’s something about the experience of seeing its vast coral shelves in real life that makes it more real to us. And once we’ve experienced it, we might be more likely to care about it. In this episode of Think: Sustainability, we take a look at how tourism can create advocates, or sometimes citizen scientists, out of tourists. Tourism operators and scientists are working together to achieve common goals, and we see just what makes that relationship successful.

Featuring: Gemma Gillette, PhD Candidate, Climate Change Cluster, University of Technology Sydney Lorna Howlett, PhD Candidate, Climate Change Cluster, University of Technology Sydney and Crew Member, Wavelength Cruises Hanne Nielsen, Lecturer in Antarctic Law and Governance, Institute for Marine and Antarctic Studies, University of Tasmania

Producer: Josh Green Presenter: Marlene Even Music: Epidemic Sound

The State of the Environment 2021 report paints a grim picture of Australia’s biodiversity, including an increase in the number of listed threatened species. Experts have continuously pointed to legislation as a major hurdle to improve conservation. So, with the Australian government recently pledging to reform environmental legislation- could we close the legal loopholes and save our threatened species? In this special edition of Think: Sustainability a panel of experts tell us what law reforms are needed to conserve and protect threatened species. Featuring: Dr Ian Cresswell, Co-chair of the 2021 State of the Environment Report Rachel Walmsley, Head of Policy and Law Reform, Environmental Defenders Office Dr Leigh Martin, Ecologist and Environmental Sciences Program Director at the University of Technology Sydney.

How do we sustainably use phosphorus fertiliser? A large amount of phosphate rock-a finite resource used for fertiliser- is being wasted across the supply chain, with very little being recycled or recovered. In this episode, we investigate the methods to manage phosphorus supply sustainably from using fertiliser efficiently to changing our diets.

Featuring: Professor Stuart White, Director of the Institute for Sustainable Futures, University of Technology, Sydney. Chris Hall, Regenerative Farmer and cherry grower. Stephen Annells, Chief Executive of Fertilizer Australia.

Producer/Presenter: Marlene Even Music: Epidemic Sound

2021 has been another challenging year for the planet. But it hasn’t all been doom and gloom. In this episode we look at some success stories; from coral restoration in the Great Barrier Reef to promising emission reduction targets. We speak to a Victorian community fighting against a mine in their midst and track an exciting new hope for Aussie icon, the Tasmanian Devil.
Featuring:* Professor David Suggett, Director of the Future Reefs Program at the University of Technology Sydney * Lise Walbom, CEO of Food Nation Denmark * Kelly Davis, Supervisor at Aussie Ark * Debbie Carruthers, Campaigner at Mine Free Glenaladale

Producer/ Host: Sophie EllisMusic: Epidemic Sound

What are five sounds you liked today?
A lot of the time, we get through the day without listening much to the world around us. But if we pay a little more attention, what can we learn?
In this episode, we look at acoustic ecology, and how listening can be a tool to get us to care more about our planet.
Featuring:Ingrid Neilson, musicianDr Brent Keogh, Lecturer, School of Music and Sound Design, University of Technology Sydney
Producer/presenter: Josh GreenMusic: Ingrid Neilson

What is ecological linguistics? How does the English language shape our perceptions of the environment? In this episode we discuss the different terms used to describe climate change and then highlight some more subtle ways language can shape our perceptions of the world around us.
Featuring:Lee Joachim, Yorta Yorta man, Board Member of Living Languages Australia.Professor Arran Stibbe, Professor of Ecological Linguistics, University of GloucestershireDr Helen Bromhead, Linguist, Postdoctoral Research Fellow at the Griffith Research Centre for Social and Cultural Research and Project Lead at the Griffith Climate Action Beacon, Griffith UniversityDr Jeremy Walker, Co-director of the Climate Justice Research Centre, and Senior Lecturer in Social and Political Sciences Program, Faculty of Arts and Social Sciences University of Technology Sydney
Producer/Presenter: Marlene EvenMusic: Epidemic Sound‘If It’s Flooded, Forget it’, public safety advertisement, 2021, ACT Emergency Services Agency

Coral reefs are under serious threat, an IPCC report predicts that even if global warming is limited to 1.5 degrees celsius above pre-industrial levels it would result in a 70-90 percent decline of tropical coral reefs. In this episode we open our eyes, nose and ears to discuss the innovative ways coral reefs can be conserved. In the first half of this episode we learn about the sounds of coral reefs and in the second half the ‘smell’ of coral reefs.
Featuring:Dr Miles Parsons, research scientist, Australian Institute of Marine ScienceDr Caitlin Lawson, research associate at the Climate Change Cluster (C3), University of Technology Sydney and School of Environmental and Life Sciences, University of Newcastle
Producer/Presenter: Marlene EvenMusic: Epidemic SoundNingaloo Reef lagoon area recording (credit: Reef Song Project, AIMS)North West Australia Fish Choruses recording (credit: Curtin University)

With the most anticipated international cooperation on climate change this decade now over, in this episode we reflect on what the COP26 conference has achieved, Australia's contributions, and consider its impact on those most vulnerable to the climate crisis.Featuring:* Dr Sven Teske, Research Director at the Institute for Sustainable Futures at the University of Technology Sydney * Dr Cameron Tonkinwise, Research Director at the Design Innovation Research Centre at the University of Technology Sydney

Producer/Host: Sophie Ellis
Music: Epidemic Sound

What do you think of when you imagine a swamp?
They may not be regarded as postcard-perfect environments but swamps play really mportant roles ecologically, regulating water and storing carbon. But they’re at risk, and the problems mostly boil down to human causes. This episode looks at swamps, what’s threatening them, and what’s being done to keep them safe.
Featuring:* Grant Hose, Faculty of Science and Engineering, Macquarie University * John Merson, Executive Director, Blue Mountains World Heritage Institute * Heather Goodall, Professor Emerita, University of Technology Sydney

Producer/presenter: Josh Green
Music: Epidemic Sound

Shanes Park is destined to be western Sydney’s new national park. The project aims to attract tourists to western Sydney, with visitor facilities and an education centre planned for 2023. But those developments and others, have ecologists concerned about the health of the site going forward.Featuring:Wayne Olling, Manager of Flora and Fauna, Blacktown and District Environment GroupLeigh Martin, School of Life Sciences, University of Technology SydneyProducer/presenter: Julia Carr-CatzelAssistant producer: Eamonn CulhaneMusic: Epidemic Sound

Kids have come to represent the face of the environmental justice movement and for good reason. In this episode, we examine the work of young people fighting for a stable climate future, their ability to motivate change, and how they reckon with the pressure of being held as beacons of hope.
Featuring:* Anna Thieben, Co-convenor of Envio collective at The University of Technology Sydney * Damien Nguyen, Co-convenor of Envio collective at The University of Technology Sydney * Ashjayeen Sharif, Student activist Greenpeace campaigner

Thanks to the expertise of Dr. Laura Schuijers, research fellow at Melbourne University Law School for her substantial contribution to the analysis of the Sharma v Environment Minister case featured in this episode (15:30 - 18:15)
Producer/ Presenter: Sophie Ellis
Music: Epidemic Sound

Green roofs have a myriad of benefits including attracting biodiversity, reducing air pollution, storm water management and reducing the impact of the urban heat island effect. Did you know that green roofs can also improve the efficiency of solar panels? In this episode we explore how integrating a green roof with a solar photovoltaic system (known as a biosolar green roof) can boost the solar energy output. In the second half of this episode we look into some incentives that could increase the uptake of green roofs.
Featuring:Dr. Peter Irga, Environmental Engineer at the University of Technology Sydney.Robert Fleck, Research Engineer for the Faculty of Engineering and Information Technology and PhD Candidate at the University of Technology Sydney,Jorge Chapa, Head of Market Transformation at the Green Building Council of Australia.
Producer/Presenter: Marlene EvenMusic: Epidemic Sound

In a special World Food Day episode of Think: Sustainability we invite three guests to discuss what role short food supply chains have in supporting sustainable resilient food systems. How do we create contingency plans to build resilience to vulnerabilities, shocks and stress in our food systems? In this #WorldFoodDay discussion we hear about the resilience of food systems from Solomon Islands to Tropical North Queensland to North-East Victoria.
Featured:Dr Federico Davila, Research Director & Senior Research Fellow (Food Systems) at the Institute for Sustainable Futures, University of Technology Sydney.Dr Kimberley Reis, Environmental & Social Planning Lecturer, Griffith University.Serenity Hill, farmer, co-founder of the Open Food Network, and a Director of both Open Food Foundation and Open Food Network Australia.
Producer/Presenter: Marlene EvenMusic: Epidemic Sound

Plastic pollution is an undeniable problem. One solution proposed to help solve our plastic woes is bioplastics. In this episode, we look at what bioplastics actually are, how algae is changing the industry, and whether they can deliver on the environmentally sound promises they make.
Featuring:* Dr Unnikrishnan Kuzhiumparambil Lead Chemist as The Climate Change Cluster at The University of Technology Sydney * Professor Leonie Barner, Director of the Centre for Waste Free World at the Queensland University of Technology.

Producer/Host: Sophie Ellis
Music: Epidemic Sound

How are fashion designers using digital technology to reduce textile waste? In this episode we discuss how digital technologies such as 3D pattern making software and body scanning are key to a sustainable fashion industry.Featuring:Dr Timo Rissanen, Associate Professor in Fashion and Textiles, University of Technology, SydneyNat Stratos, Circular Design Practitioner and Facilitator, Co-Director of 3D and Circular Design.Annie Tran, fourth year honours student studying Fashion at the University of Technology, Sydney.Producer/Presenter: Marlene EvenMusic: Epidemic Sound

Digital labour and remote working trends have seen incredible uptake due to the pandemic. Though we may think these changes to our lives exist only in the ephemeral online world, in this episode we explore whether the digital workforce could help us build more sustainable cities.
Featuring:* Andrew Butt, Associate Professor in Sustainability and Urban Planning at RMIT University * David Bissell, Associate Professor in the School of Geography at University of Melbourne * Shanaka Herath, Lecturer in the School of Built Environment at The University of Technology Sydney

Producer/Host: Sophie Ellis
Music: Epidemic Sound

Climate Fatigue is one of the many terms used to describe a sense of apathy or dread caused by the constant exposure to images of climate change. We explore how Art can help disrupt this feeling and revitalize how we relate to the climate crisis.
Featuring:* Dr Zoë Sadokierski, Senior Lecturer in the School of Design at The University of Technology Sydney. * Kate Scardifield, Artist and Co-Director of the Material Ecologies Design Lab The University of Technology Sydney. * Alankrita Narayan, Author of ‘Urban Sunbirds in Delhi- Modern Problems Require Modern Solutions’ and Participant in the Urban Field Naturalist Project.

Producer/Host: Sophie Ellis
Music: Epidemic Sound

Energy poverty is a complex socioeconomic issue. Many people are experiencing the health, social, and economic disadvantages of living in energy inefficient homes. In this episode, we discuss minimum energy efficiency standards for renters and access to renewable energy.
Featured:Riley Brooke, renter, policy and campaigns officer at the Tenants’ Union of NSW.Caroline Valente, PhD candidate, School of the Built Environment, University of Technology Sydney.Aliya Uteuova, visual reporter covering environmental justice for The Guardian USBryan Tran, community organiser at the Sydney Alliance
Producer/presenter: Marlene EvenMusic: Epidemic Sound

What are the threats to honeybees and what wider impact could this have for us? We discuss the impact Australia’s recent bushfires and floods had on beekeepers and the issues facing Australia’s apiary industry.
Featuring:* Dr Nural Cokcetin, postdoctoral researcher at the University of Technology Sydney’s ithree institute * Bruce White OAM, beekeeper, bio-security officer and a former President of the NSW Amateur Beekeepers’ Association

Producer/Host: Marlene EvenMusic: Epidemic Sound

Increasingly severe and frequent natural disasters are a part of our reality as a result of climate change. But how will this affect global economies? This episode explores how climate change is affecting the insurance industry. How this influences where and how we live. The industry’s response to climate risk and What we need to change to make sure Australia remains insurable in the face of a changing climate.
Featuring:* Tom Davies, Climate Change Special Advisor at The Insurance Council of Australia * Gordon Noble, Partnerships Manager at the Institute for Sustainable Futures, University of Technology Sydney. * Sue Falkenhagen, Townsville Resident.

Music: Blue Dot Sessions, Epidemic Sound, Solecism by Scott Buckley

Globally countries are striving towards a transition from diesel and petrol vehicles to electric ones. In this episode we explore the electrification of New South Wales’ public transport, specifically buses.
Featuring:* Mathew Hounsell, senior researcher at the Transport Research Centre, School of Civil and Environmental Engineering, University of Technology Sydney * Katelyn Purnell, Phd researcher, Centre for Energy and Environmental Markets, University of New South Wales * Robyn Preston MP, local member for Hawkesbury, member of the Liberal Party, Chair of the Legislative Assembly Committee on Transport and Infrastructure

Producer/Host: Marlene EvenMusic: Epidemic Sound

The way we produce our food needs to change. Our current practices will not meet the demands of a growing population and a warming climate. Algae, that slimy green stuff you find at the beach, might just help us more sustainably produce our food.This episode looks at how Algae biotechnologies are revolutionising the agriculture and aquaculture industry.
Featuring* Professor Peter Ralph, Executive Director of Climate Change Cluster at The University of Technology Sydney * Dr Graeme Barnett, CEO and Managing Director of Qponics Limited * Bastien Finet, Operations Manager at Pacific Reef Fisheries

Music: Epidemic Sound

Legal personhood or ‘rights of nature’ laws have been around since as early as the 1970s and have attracted lawmakers in jurisdictions all over the world. But what do these legal concepts offer? How do they interact with current environmental laws? And what are their limits?Producer: Marlene EvenProducer/Presenter: Julia Carr-CatzelFeatured:Michelle Maloney, co-founder and national convener, Australian Earth Laws AllianceDr Virginia Marshall, Wiradjuri Nyemba woman, lawyer and Indigenous postdoctoral fellow at the Australian National UniversityMusic: Epidemic Sound

In this episode of Think: Sustainability, is Australia doing its best to care for our Pacific neighbours as they confront the effects of a changing climate? How can we improve current labour programs and pathways?Producer/Presenter: Julia Carr-CatzelFeatured:Mesulame Ratukadreu, Pacific Labour Scheme workerJonathan Pryke, Director, Pacific Islands Program, Lowy InstituteAmanda Moors-Mailei, Student Equity Project Officer, Centre for Social Justice and Inclusion, University of TechnologyMusic: Epidemic Sound

In this episode of Think: Sustainability, we spotlight some exciting new developments in the sustainability sector. What projects have been underway while we’ve been glued to our TVs, following COVID and the US election?We talk to three experts in environmental fields to celebrate innovative renewable energy projects, the circular economy and what a Joe Biden election victory means for Australia’s climate policy.Producer: Marlene EvenProducer/Presenter: Julia Carr-CatzelFeatured:Dr Nick Florin, Research Director, Institute for Sustainable Futures (ISF), University of Technology Sydney. Manager of the Resource Futures research group and directs and undertakes collaborative research projects with industry and government partners on resource conservation, recovery and recycling.Professor Veena Sahajwalla, Director of the Circular Economy Innovation Network and founding Director of the Centre for Sustainable Materials Research and Technology (SMaRT) UNSW.Dr Chris Briggs, Research Principal, Institute for Sustainable Futures, University of Technology and Technical Director, Business Renewables Centre-Australia.Music: Epidemic Sound

In this episode, we explore the psychology of climate change. With the help of Carl Jung’s analytical psychology, we look at how our internal disorder may be hindering efforts to solve external problems. What is holding us back from effective climate action, individually and collectively?Producer/presenter: Julia Carr-CatzelFeatured:Jonathan Marshall, Future Fellow and member of the Climate Justice Research Centre, University of Technology Sydney Music: Epidemic Sound

This is the second-part of a two-part series of Think: Sustainability, where we speak to those living in precarious housing situations. In part one, we spoke to public housing tenants. In this episode, we hear from some of the half a million international students trapped in Australia.Producer/Presenter: Julia Carr-CatzelFeatured:Mon Mon Myo Myint, Rajendra Kumar, Rojal L. Shrestha, international studentsAdam Loftus, School Breakfast 4 Health and Agencies Team Leader, FoodbankKylie Ebert, Director, Student Life, Macquarie UniversityAlan Morris, professor, Institute for Public Policy and Governance, University of Technology SydneyMusic: Epidemic Sound, Blue Dot Sessions

In this two-part series of Think: Sustainability, we speak to those living in precarious housing situations in Australia. In part one, tens of thousands sit on public housing waiting lists, and a severe lack of funding in the sector means that those who make it in, are some of the most vulnerable in society.Producer/Presenter: Julia Carr-CatzelFeatured:Alan Morris, professor, Institute for Public Policy and Governance, University of Technology SydneyFiona Ross, public housing tenant, co-founder Friends of Public HousingSara Wilkinson, building surveyor, professor, School of Built Environment, University of Technology SydneyMusic: Epidemic Sound, Blue Dot Sessions

In this episode, we take a closer look at whether COVID19 has shone a harsh light on aviation’s carbon footprint, or whether despite the crisis; the big players in aviation will be unwilling to turn-off auto-pilot.Producer/Presenter: Max TillmanFeatured:Audrey Quicke, researcher, the Australia Institute ClimateJonothan O'Neill, manager, UTS ProtospaceDr Ben Hankamer, Queensland Sustainable Aviation Fuel InitiativeMusic:Epidemic Sound

In this episode, we examine space debris, what is it and why is there more of it? We examine current and emerging space junk removal technology. And what laws and measures are in place to hold those who litter, to account?Presenter/Producer: Marlene EvenFeatured:Dr. Martin Bell, astrophysicist, and lecturer at the University of Technology Sydney School of Mathematical and Physical Sciences.Dr. Cassandra Steer, a lecturer at the Australian National University College of Law and a mission specialist at the Australian National University Institute for Space.Mike Lindsay, Chief Technology Officer, Astroscale.Music:Epidemic SoundSound:‘Starlink mission’, 18th August 2020 (credit: SpaceX) https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jTMJK7wb0rMInterview with Peter Meiklejohn, from the documentary ‘Searching for Skylab' 2019 (credit: ‘Searching for Skylab’, Dwight Steven-Boniecki) www.searchingforskylab.com‘Flight Controllers Activity During Skylab Reentry On 12.7.1979’, (credit: NASA)‘Sounds of Saturn: Hear Radio Emissions of the Planet and its Moon Enceladus’, 2017, licence under a Creative Common Licence (Credit: NASA/JPL-Caltech/University of Iowa) https://soundcloud.com/nasa/enceladus-hiss-audio‘Dinks and Donks: from InSight’s seismometer’, 2019 (credit: NASA) https://www.nasa.gov/connect/sounds/index.html

In this guest episode from Think: Digital Futures, producer Caitlin McHugh examines how climate breakdown is changing the way people live. In cities, already soaring temperatures are compounded by the concrete, treeless layouts of most urban centres, while extreme weather decimates crops and disrupts our food supply chains. But what are the possibilities of green walls and vertical agriculture in our urban centres, how can technology help us adapt to a worsening climate?Producer/presenter: Caitlin McHughFeatured:Sarah Wilkinson, Professor, School of Built Environment, UTSTim Schork, Associate Professor, School of Architecture, UTSMarc Carmichael, Senior Lecturer, School of Mechanical and Mechatronic Engineering, UTSMel Fyfe, CEO and Co-founder of BlakthumbMusic: Epidemic Sound, Tomas Skyldeberg

In this episode we look at how a post-COVID economy can serve the interests of the planet andhow to take lessons learnt from one crisis and apply them to the next.Featured:Honourable Bob Carr, Industry Professor at Institute for Sustainable Futures, UTS. Former Premier of NSW and former Foreign Minister of Australia.Dr Deborah Cotton, Senior Lecture, Finance Discipline Group, Business School, UTSSarah Fumei, Project Manager, ClimateWorks AustraliaProducer/presenter: Julia Carr-CatzelMusic: Epidemic Sound

In this episode, we take a look at the world of conservation after two major blows: the Black Summer bushfires and COVID-19. How have these crises affected the work of conservationists? And what are their demands of government, heading into the future?Producer/Presenter: Julia Carr-CatzelProducer: Marlene EvenFeatured:Dr Kellie Leigh, Executive Director, Science for WildlifeJonathan Webb, Associate Professor and Wildlife Ecologist, School of Life Sciences, University of Technology SydneyReannan Honey, PhD student, School of Life Sciences, University of Technology SydneyMusic: Epidemic Sound

In this episode, we assess the real impacts of bushfire smoke on our health, why it may be crucial health practitioners and environmental scientists collaborate in anticipation of worse bushfire seasons in the future.Producer/Presenter: Julia Carr-CatzelFeatured:Benjamin Herder, asthma suffererDavid Bowman, co-author of the University of Tasmania study, professor of pyrogeography and fire scienceDr. Arnagretta Hunter, cardiologist and clinical senior lecturer, Australian National University Medical SchoolDr. Alex Baumber, senior lecturer at the Faculty of Transdisciplinary Innovation, University of Technology SydneyMusic: Epidemic Sound

The coronavirus pandemic saw a boom in gardening with many people taking up the hobby during their time in isolation. We know scientifically that being in nature can decrease stress as well as a myriad of other health benefits. In this episode we look at why nature is good for our mental health and the inequitable access to green spaces.Presenter/Producer: Marlene EvenFeatured:Phil Pettitt, Community Greening Coordinator, Royal Botanic Gardens SydneyProfessor Tonia Gray, centre for educational research, Western Sydney UniversityDr Peter Irga, research fellow, Civil and Environmental Engineering, Business School, University of Technology SydneyProfessor Sara Wilkinson, professor of sustainable property, school of built environment, University of Technology SydneyDr Fiona Orr, senior lecturer in mental health nursing, University of Technology SydneyMusic: Epidemic Sound

It’s safe to say Dr Ian McGregor has committed his entire career to tackling this century’s biggest challenge, global warming.Ian has attended every United Nations Climate Summit since 2009. He earned a place on Afghanistan’s delegation for six of those summits, in the lead-up to the Paris Agreement in 2015. Ian spent time in the country himself, consulting with the Afghan government on climate change policy. He has worked with some 35 other Least Developed Countries.Ian and I spoke about climate refugees and the political systems best suited to tackling global warming.Produced and presented by: Julia Carr-CatzelFeatured: Dr Ian McGregor, Business School, University of Technology SydneyMusic: Epidemic Sound

As we confront one of the biggest challenges of the 21st century - the climate crisis - people around the world are becoming increasingly frustrated with the lack of guidance from governments. Leading some to seek solutions elsewhere. Big business has been hailed both the most obvious obstacle and obvious opportunity for saving the environment. But, can we trust the promises of big business to meet sustainability targets? What’s genuine and what’sjust a bit of greenwashing?Presenter/Producer: Julia Carr-CatzelProducer: Marlene EvenFeatured:Peter Fleming, Professor, Business School, University of Technology SydneyDaye Moffit, Executive Strategy Director, LandorMusic: Epidemic Sound

In this episode we’re looking at how Australia’s disastrous bushfire season affected our water systems. How drinking water can become so easily compromised. And how experts are working to make sure our system is resilient for next time.Producer/presenter: Julia Carr-CatzelFeaturing:Stuart Khan, Professor, School of Civil and Environmental Engineering, University of New South WalesStuart White, Director, Institute for Sustainable Futures, University of Technology SydneyMusic: Epidemic sound

How do we heal an ecosystem traumatised by fire? How will climate change result in more intense fires? And why aren't we listening to Indigenous fire management recommendations from past inquiries?Producer/Presenter: Julia Carr-CatzelProduction Assistant: Marlene EvenFeatured:Oliver Costello, CEO, Firesticks Alliance Indigenous CorporationKevin Tolhurst, Associate Professor, Fire Ecology and Management, University of MelbourneBrad Murray, Senior Lecturer, School of Life Sciences, University of Technology SydneyMore information on cultural burning: #116 Rekindling Cultural Burning

In part two, we examine how the climate crisis is fuelling ecofascist ideology, how the ideology may be taken up by more mainstream politicians and how ideas spread online.
Featured:Andrew Jakubowicz, emeritus professor, sociology, University of Technology Sydney
Betsy Hartmann, emeritus professor, development studies, Hampshire College, Massachusetts, USA
Producer/Presenter: Julia Carr-Catzel

In part one, we unpack the history of ecofascism. The ideology written in the manifestos of terrorists. We trace back the movement to its beginnings in German philosophy, Eugenics, Hitler's 'blood and soil' slogans and Norse mythology. We also examine how overpopulation has changed meaning over the past few decades - and how all of this is linked to environmentalism.Featured:Andrew Jakubowicz, emeritus professor, sociology, University of Technology SydneyBetsy Hartmann, emeritus professor, development studies, Hampshire College, Massachusetts, USAProducer/Presenter: Julia Carr-Catzel

Through the heart of Inner-Sydney runs a river pushed to the environmental brink. The Cooks River has bared the burden of urban development in Sydney from the time colonisers settled in Australia. But the river, once dubbed Australia's most polluted, is on the mend. In this episode, we meet the people who want to bring the Cooks River back to life.
Featuring:
Jennifer Newman, Lecturer at the University of Technology SydneyIan Tyrell, Emeritus Professor of History at the University of New South WalesSue Burton, Executive Officer of the Cooks River AllianceDr Ian Wright, Senior Lecturer in Natural Science at the University of Western SydneyAnne Leahy, President of the Cooks River Valley AssociationPeter Monroe, Co-Founder of the MudcrabsRanjit, Mudcrabs Coordinator
Producer/Presenter: Victor Petrovic

In this episode: as the most vulnerable citizens bear the brunt of the climate crisis, confronted with civil conflict and forced to migrate as climate refugees - will the international community come to their aid?Featured:Christopher Odeyemi, PhD student, University of Technology SydneyDr Ian McGregor, Business School, University of Technology Sydney and member, Climate Action Research Group, UTS.Dr Julian Bolleter, Deputy Director, Australian Urban Design Research Centre, University of Western AustraliaProducer/Presenter: Julia Carr-Catzel

On this episode, we question how journalists have been covering the climate crisis. We look at whether they are numbing audiences with never-ending urgent messaging.And, we examine a new wave of young activists campaigning for climate action, assessing to what extent they can make a difference. Featured: Tom Morton, Professor in Journalism, researcher at Centre for Climate Change, University of Technology SydneyTooba Farooqui, student and climate change activist Nathaniel Geiger, Associate Professor, Communication Sciences, Indiana State UniversityProducer/presenter: Julia Carr-Catzel

In this episode, we look at why Australia is reviving the nuclear energy debate after more than a decade of silence.
And why some are dubbing nuclear as our climate salvation.
Featured:
Sue Coleman-Haseldine, nuclear test survivor and anti-nuclear campaigner
Robert Parker, Vice President, Australian Nuclear Association
Heiko Timmers, Associate Professor of Physics, UNSW Canberra
Kerrie-Ann Garlick, nuclear free community campaigner, Conservation Council of Western Australia.
Dani Alexander, Research Principle, Institute for Sustainable Futures, University of Technology Sydney
Music:Fuzzy Logic – NihoniSubconscious – NihoniOlsted Harten – The Fence In passage – MigrationAlgea Trio – Algea Fields Closing Shop - CrabshackKirkus - Architect
Producer/Presenter: Julia Carr-Catzel

What is the real waste from sanitary products? And why is no one talking about eco-friendly alternatives?This episode explores how a culture valuing discretion and secrecy around periods can be harmful to the environment.Featuring:Juliette Kidston-Lattari, graduate student of Environmental Biology and Creative Intelligence and Innovation, University of Technology SydneyRosie Sheba, Founder, Sustainable Menstruation AustraliaMusic:Popism - Banana CreamNeon Drip - Radio PinkProducer/Presenter: Julia Carr-Catzel

Bushfire season in Australia is starting earlier every year, going for longer, and bringing more destructive fires. Fire authorities do their best to prevent and limit this destruction, as climate change makes their jobs ever more difficult. But are we looking at Australia’s relationship the right way? Aboriginal people have been managing the landscape with fire for thousands of years, and still do. We look at how Aboriginal fire knowledge is being revived, and what it means for fire management in Australia.Featuring:Oliver Costello, founding director of the Firesticks Alliance Indigenous CorporationPeta-Marie Standley, cultural burning researcher at James Cook UniversityJacqueline Gothe, associate professor at the University of Technology SydneySchool of Design

It's the year 2031. The temperature is rising, as is the price of electricity. But the government has banned renewable energy. Will you go underground to survive? Or join the Solarnauts in their rebellion?
Featuring:
Claire Marshall - Creator, Museum of FuturesTania Leimbach - Research Assistant, Faculty of Transdisciplinary Innovation, University of Technology Sydney

It was supposed to be a climate election, but nothing went according to plan. With the benefit of hindsight, we look back to before the May 18 federal election result, to see who went wrong, who went right and who paid the price in the campaign for the climate.
Featuring:Nicky Ison - Research Associate, Institute for Sustainable Futures, University of Technology Sydney and Co-Founder, Community Power Agency

If you could start our society again from scratch, how sustainable would you make it? Would you build a new city at sea? Or develop a village in a valley? In this episode we look at two different ways some people are trying to start again. And how starting afresh doesn't always mean leaving old problems behind.
Featuring:Matthew Daly - Research Consultant, Institute for Sustainable Futures, University of Technology SydneyJohn Talbott, - Project Director, Narara EcovillageJazz Mozzi - Admin Officer, Narara EcovillageKarina Czapiewska - Co-founder Blue 21Raymond B. Craib - Associate Professor in the Department of History, Cornell UniversityScilla Sayer - Community member, Narara Ecovillage

Dozens of countries around the world are devising plans to build new cities from scratch. They're pitched as an opportunity to start fresh and make our urban environments more sustainable and equitable. But are these new cities just an excuse to abandon the problems of existing ones?
Featuring:Dr Sarah Moser - Director of the Urban Studies Program, McGill University.Kerryn Wilmot - Research Principal and Core Member of the Institute for Sustainable Futures, University of Technology Sydney.
Producer/Presenter: Daniel Butler.

The war on plastic straws has picked up so much speed some countries are looking to ban them altogether. But what these bans completely fail to recognise is some people need and use plastic straws everyday. This episode we look at how straw bans discriminate against disability.
Featuring:Micaela Evans.Simon Darcy - University of Technology Sydney Business School.
Full episode transcript available here https://bit.ly/2KYkF6J

Waiting for your next Think: Sustainability fix? We’ve got something else for you in the meantime. Introducing a new season of All Things Equal. This series will take you into the school yard and beyond, where kids learn that things aren't always fair. Through the stories of real students and staff, Uniform will change the way you think about education; because when it comes to learning, one size does not fit all.
Subscribe to All Things Equal in your favourite podcast app, or listen to the show here:https://www.whooshkaa.com/shows/after-metoo-stories-of-social-change

There's a strong image that lives in many peoples minds when you say the word farmer. A burly, middle-aged white male dressed in flannel and denim. While many farmers still fit this mould, this image is also a damaging one. It excludes the hard work and contribution of farmers who fall outside of this imagining.
This episode, we're pulling this image apart. You'll hear from queer farmers Marita (Milton Mushrooms) and Perri (Hey Cobber!) who share their experiences of farming in regional Australia. Hazel Blunden (University of Technology Sydney) explores the push and pull factors of queer living in the city, while sociologist Jaclyn Wypler (University of Wisconsin) unpacks what it means to be queer in the country.

When it comes to sustainability, shifting away from coal generated power makes complete sense. But what does the transition mean for communities who depend on 'dirty' industries for their survival? This episode is all about the journey to renewables, and how we can make sure no one gets left behind.
Features:
Danny Boothman - Former Hazelwood worker and musicianProfessor Peter Sheldon - Director of the Industrial Relations Research Centre at the University of New South WalesDr Sven Teske - Research Director at Institute for Sustainable Futures, University of Technology, SydneyDan Musil - Secretary of Earthworker Cooperative

Termites are often written off as a pest, but there is more to the little creatures than meets the eye. This episode is all about termites; what they destroy, but also what they build. And all the things we could learn from them, if only they could talk.
Featuring:Dr Sebastian Oberst - Senior Lecturer, Centre for Audio Acoustics and Vibration at the University of Technology SydneyCarolyn - ArtistTherese - ArtistLyn - ArtistKat - ArtistRob Adams - Director of City Design at the City of Melbourne

Deciding to have a baby can be one of the most important personal choices you will make in your lifetime. And yet, bringing new life into the world won’t just impact you and your family. This episode is all about Australians who are choosing to think differently, and see their personal family planning as a type of environmental action plan in an overpopulated world. But can individual action really make a difference?
Featuring:PhoebeMarkGraham Pyke - Adjunct Professor in the School of Life Sciences at the University of Technology SydneyKatie

The environmental movement in Australia has a race problem. White led governments continue to form policies based off research rooted in western science. Western science will often position itself as the only answer, actively excluding knowledge belonging to Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples. In this episode we ask, is western environmentalism racist?
Featuring:Bradley Moggridge - PhD Candidate at the University of Canberra.Tania Searle - PhD Candidate at Flinders University. Natalie Stoianoff - Director of the Intellectual Property Program at the University of Technology Sydney.

As we continue to trash our oceans and terrestrial environments, many are pitching the model of the circular economy as an answer to our problem with waste. Building on the reduce, reuse, recycle model, the circular economy promises an end to overflowing dumps where products are continually repurposed. While the promise of circularity sounds so good, this episode we unpack how a circular economy universe might see us produce even more waste and cause greater social inequity.
Featuring:Trevor Zink - Assistant Professor of Management from Loyola Marymount University.Melissa Edwards - Senior Lecturer in the University of Technology Sydney Business School.

Where we've typically ascribed trauma to the individual, climate change now sees large groups of people sharing the same damaging experience in what's being called 'collective trauma'. But as post-disaster care continues to prioritise physical safety, the mental health of survivors often falls to the wayside. This episode we explore the global implications of climate change on mental health and why our mental health services aren't ready for what's to come.
Featuring:Lucy Chen - Student at the University of Technology Sydney and Climate Activist.Helen Berry - Professor of Climate Change and Mental Health at the University of Sydney.Jennifer First - Program Manager at the Disaster and Community Crisis Centre at the University of Missouri-Columbia.
Producer/Presenter: Jake Morcom.

When tobacco company Philip Morris sued Australia over our plain packaging laws, it's fair to say we were taken by surprise. How can a foreign company take a nation's government to tribunal for protecting its citizens health? The answer is Investor State Dispute Settlement, an obscure clause in free trade agreements allowing corporations to sue foreign governments for what it perceives be unfair discrimination. In practice, this tends to end up happening over regulations in two area: health and the environment. This episode unpacks how ISDS could put a stranglehold on regulations and policies that put people ahead of profit.
Producer/Presenter: Cheyne Anderson.
Featuring:Dr Patricia Ranald - Convenor of Australian Fair Trade and Investment Network.Dr Carl Rhodes - Professor of Organisational Studies at the University of Technology Sydney. Matthew Rimmer - Professor of Intellectual Property and Innovation Law at the Queensland University of Technology. Max Bonnell - Partner, White and Case.

What can the sounds of the stratosphere tell us about the nature of noise on the ground?
Featuring: Julius Ambroisine - PhD Student at the University of Technology Sydney.

There are over 400 parks and open spaces in the City of Sydney. Some are lush, vast open spaces while others small pockets of green hidden among suburban streets. But are these treasured environments just another reminder that we've buried our histories?
This is part two of a series exploring the classism of the environmental movement.
Featuring:Professor Jaky Troy - Director, Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Research at the University of Sydney.Peter McNeil - Distinguished Professor in Design History, School of Design at the University of Technology Sydney.Penny Allan - Professor of Landscape Architecture, School of Architecture at the University of Technology Sydney.

While many fret over their calorie intake or whether or not their food is certified organic, others are struggling get dinner on the table. There are many barriers to food, but it's the motivations behind food distribution pushing vulnerable communities even further into food distress. In this episode, we unpack what these motivations are and why Australia as a nation is failing to address food security.
This is part one of a series exploring the classism of the environmental movement.
Featuring:Teresa Davis - Associate Professor of Marketing at the University of Sydney.Sara Wilkinson - Associate Professor in the School of the Built Environment at the University of Technology Sydney.Tanya Lawlis - Assistant Professor in the Discipline of Nutrition and Dietetics at the University of Canberra.Matt Daly - Research Consultant from the Institute for Sustainable Futures at the University of Technology Sydney.

Virtual reality immerses us in artificial experiences of the real world with research also showing VR can create empathy with the environment you're experiencing. But how far does this empathy go?
Featuring:Ryan Watson - Head of Community Engagement at New Horizons.Catherine Maree Smith - Ambassador for Parallel Parks.Glenn Albrecht - Retireds Lecturer in Sustainability at Murdoch University.Jeremy Walker - Lecturer in Environment, Culture and Society at the University of Technology Sydney.
Producer: Cheyne Anderson.
This program originally aired on Think: Digital Futures.

When City of Melbourne launched the Urban Forest Visual strategy to gather data on the city's 77,000 trees, something happened they didn't plan for. In an attempt to engage the community in the data collection process, they added an email function so residents could notify the council if a tree needed help. Instead, the council received an outpouring of love letters, drawings and tributes to the urban environment. So they decided to write back...
Featuring:Councillor Cathy Oke, City of Melbourne.Jeremy Walker - Lecturer in Environment, Culture and Society at the University of Technology Sydney.
Producers: Cheyne Anderson, Miles Herbert.
This program originally aired on Think: Digital Futures.

With the public consultation period for the Sydney Marine Park ending today, Marine Ecologist Dave Booth discusses the future of the park and how the scrapping of sanctuary zones could endanger fragile marine ecosystems.
You can have your last minute say by following this link to the Marine NSW website.

There are currently more than 10 million refugees worldwide and approximately every minute 24 people around the world are forced to flee their homes. Living conditions within the refugee camps displaced people settle are often characterised by limited resources. But typically, the environmental considerations are put aside while refugees deal with the healthcare deficiencies caused by this global refugee crisis. Even though these humanitarian concerns are linked to the environmental ones.
Featuring:Professor Abbas El-Zein - University of Sydney.Professor Roberta Ryan - Institute for Public Policy and Governance at the University of Technology Sydney.

The superannuation scheme was introduced in Australia to ensure people have the money they need when they reach retirement. But some 26 years after the scheme was sworn in, at what point did your retirement savings become a means to fund a renewable energy future?
Featuring:Michael Bones - Head of Engagement at Future Super. Glen Klatovsky - Deputy CEO of 350 Australia. Stuart Palmer - Head of Ethics at Australian Ethical. Dr Scott Dwyer and Dr Yohan Kim from the Institute for Sustainable Futures at the University of Technology Sydney.

The rise of artificial intelligence has as many anxious as it does excited, with people concerned that autonomous technologies could automate them out of a job. But as technology continues to make huge leaps forward, there's very little in the way of policy to ensure these innovations don't disrupt people's working lives and contribute to a more unequal society.
Featuring:Nicholas Davis - Head of Society and Innovation, Member of the Executive Committee, World Economic Forum.Nik Dawson - PhD Student in the Faculty of Engineering and Information Technologies at the University of Technology Sydney.

The International Seabed Authority has issued 29 exploration licenses for deep sea mining. But with the deep sea falling under the protections of outdated international agreements and largely remaining a mystery, how can we be sure mining the ocean floor won't bring about ecological destruction?
Featuring:Ngenge Sasa - Local Level Government President in Balopa LLG, Manus Province, Papua New Guinea and Member of the Alliance of Solwara Warriors.Elsa Dominish - Senior Research Consultant at the Institute for Sustainable Futures at the University of Technology Sydney. Duncan Currie - Legal and Policy Advisor to the Deep Sea Conservation Coalition.

Two climate engineering technologies have been inscribed into the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change's Fifth Assessment Report outlining they'll be crucial in ensuring we don't exceed 2 degrees of global warming. However, with little evidence as to how these technologies work in the field, is this just another attempt to stall more proactive climate action?
Featuring:Jonathan Marshall - Future Fellow in the Faculty of Arts and Social Sciences at the University of Technology Sydney. Kerryn Brent - Law Lecturer at the University of Tasmania. Steven Siems - Professor in the School of Earth Atmosphere and Environment at Monash University.

Warfare is destructive and absolute, but when conflict ends there is often surplus of weaponry. However, in burying or dumping these munitions when they're no longer needed, we've threatened the fabric of fragile ecosystems.
Featuring:Stephen Billings - Geophysicist with GapEOD (Gap Explosive Ordnance Detection Pty Ltd).Julie Konzuk - Principal Environment Engineer with Geosyntec Consultants.Dr Megan Phillips - Lecturer in the School of Life Sciences at Head of PhytoLab at the University of Technology Sydney.

Thanks to overpopulation and man made climate change, global food stocks are running low. Enter ‘future foods’ - the gross, weird and wonderful things clickbait articles tell us will be on our dinner plate in ten years time. But as Think: Digital Futures host Cheyne Anderson finds out, there’s more to this debate than just eating worms.
Featuring:Jacqui Newling - Colonial Gastronomer at Sydney Living Museums. Dr Janice McCauley - Research Fellow in the Climate Change Cluster at the University of Technology Sydney. Judy Friedlander - Researcher at the Institute for Sustainable Futures at the University of Technology Sydney. Olympia Yarger - Insect Farmer with Go Terra.

The practice of pastoralism in Mongolia is unlike any other agricultural practice around the globe. But as pastoralists face growing climatic uncertainty, and ongoing socio-political pressures, are the mobile herders of Mongolia at their end of days?
Featuring:Enkh-Amgalan (Enkhie) - Manager of the “Green Gold” Pasture Ecosystem Management Project.Dr Jane Addison - Research Fellow and Social-Ecological Systems Scientist from James Cook University. Bronwen Dalton - Associate Professor in the Management Discipline Group at the University of Technology Sydney Business School.

We have entered the age of personalisation where algorithms filter and feed you your digital experience. But as the power of the algorithm has grown, why are they filtering out the environment?
Featuring:Dr Jonathan Marshall - Future Fellow in the Faculty of Arts and Social Sciences at the University of Technology Sydney.Cheyne Anderson - Host of Think: Digital Futures

The data we collect via satellite informs almost all climate research today. So why do half of the earth monitoring satellites currently in orbit restrict the use of climate data?
Featuring:Alfredo Huete - Distinguished Professor in the School of Life Sciences at the University of Technology Sydney. Mariel Borowitz - Assistant Professor at the Sam Nunn School of International Affairs at Georgia Institute of Technology and author of Open Space.Rachel Licker - Senior Climate Scientist at the Union of Concerned Scientists.

It’s being called the biggest infrastructure project in human history, the likes of which Planet Earth has never seen before. And up until now, the disastrous environmental implications of the Belt and Road Initiative have gone unrecognised and underreported. In a special Think: Sustainability update, you’ll hear exactly what this environmental damage looks like and the forces pressing infrastructure over ecology.
Featuring:Bill Laurance - Distinguished Research Professor and Director for Tropical Environmental and Sustainability Science at James Cook University.
Producer: Jake Morcom.

How a community in regional Australia has distanced itself from the electricity grid and powered the town through its own energy system.
Featuring:Matt Charles-Jones - President of Totally Renewable Yackandandah (TRY)Geoff James - Research Principal from the Institute for Sustainable Futures at the University of Technology Sydney. Donna - Resident from Yackandandah.
Producer: Emma Rapaport.

How would pumped hydro storage help us transition to 100% renewable energy?
Featuring:Tom Morris - Senior Research Consultant at the Institute for Sustainable Futures at the University of Technology Sydney. Andrew Blakers - Professor of Engineering at the Australian National University. Giles Parkinson - Editor of Renew Economy.
Producer: Jake Morcom.

Will the political crisis in the Maldives unravel their tourism industry and bring about climate disaster?Featuring:

Azim Zahir - PhD Candidate in the Centre for Muslim States and Societies at the University of Western Australia.

Stephen Schweinsberg - Lecturer in Sustainable Management at the University of Technology Sydney Business School.

David Beirman - Senior Lecturer in the Management Discipline Group at the University of Technology Sydney.

Producer: Jake Morcom.

Will insurance companies ever offer cover for those living in a high risk flood zone?
Featuring:Lance Leslie - Professor of Climatology in the School of Mathematical and Physical Sciences at the University of Technology Sydney. Elizabeth Mossop - Professor of Landscape Architecture and Dean of the Design, Architecture and Building Faculty at the University of Technology Sydney. Tim Andrews - Principal at Finity Consulting. Gera and Cherina - Business Owners from Lismore, New South Wales.
Producer: Jake Morcom.

Free public transport, road space rationing, banning diesel cars; there are plenty of efforts to control levels of air pollution, but with more than 3.5 million premature deaths each year because of it, we’re failing to act quickly enough. This episode we unpick how the framework regulating air pollution in Australia is doing little to reduce toxic emissions, and how a small town in the Hunter region has been devastated at the hands of the coal industry.
Featuring:Nic Surawksi - Lecturer in the School of Civil and Environmental Engineering in the Faculty of Engineering and Information Technology at the University of Technology Sydney.Bev Smiles - Secretary of the Wollar Progress Association.James Whelan - Researcher and Networker from Environmental Justice Australia.
Producer: Jake Morcom.

As humanity continues to ponder its existence, ‘where did we all come from? Why are we here?’, researchers have suggested we may be asking the wrong questions in trying to uncover the answers. This episode we explore our evolving understanding of photosynthesis, and why the answers to some of our biggest philosophical questions could be locked in the process that enabled life to inhabit the planet, rather than what birthed us.
Speakers:David Suggett - Associate Professor in the Climate Change Cluster at the University of Technology Sydney. Tim Gibson - PhD Candidate in the Department of Earth and Planetary Sciences at McGill University, Canada.Dr Robin Purchase from the Research School of Chemistry at the Australian National University. Producer: Jake Morcom.

Australia's long history with drought and fire has cemented a strong dependence to the water around us, so why do we continue to contaminate our finite supply? This episode we uncover what we’re doing to our water in ways you may not know about, and look at the efforts trying to appease the damage before it’s too late.
Featuring:Simon Mitrovic - Associate Professor in the School of Life Sciences at the University of Technology Sydney.Maurizio Labbate - Associate Professor in the School of Life Sciences at the University of Technology Sydney.Lee Blaney - Associate Professor at the University of Baltimore County, US.
Producer: Jake Morcom.

When booking your last plane trip, you may have noticed the option to offset the carbon cost of your flight. Paying an additional fee to render your flight carbon neutral some say makes more aware of what they’re doing to the environment, but others criticise the idea calling it baseless and not as transparent as it may seem. This episode we explore how environmental offsetting goes way beyond the world of air travel and how these offsets could in fact devastate some of our most crucial forest and bushland.
Featuring:Dr Leigh Martin - Scholarly Teaching Fellow in the School of Life Sciences at the University of Technology Sydney.Daisy Barham - Campaigns Director at the Nature Conservation Council.Dr Simon Kilbane - Senior Lecturer in the School of Architecture in the Faculty of Design, Building and Architecture at the University of Technology Sydney.
Producer: Jake Morcom.

As global carbon emissions rise year in year out, many are brainstorming creative ways to reduce how much we’re spitting out into the environment. However, there’s one technology that’s raising just as many eyebrows as it is has others hopeful. This episode we explore the potential of carbon capture and storage, and why around the globe we’re seeing a lack of political will and investment into the technology.Featuring:Rebecca Cunningham - Institute for Sustainable Futures at the University of Technology Sydney.DETAIL UPDATEThe UK government, not Drax, pulled out of the CCS Project at both White Rose and Peterhead. More information here.

As global sea temperatures continue to rise, our coral reefs are turning from thriving marine ecosystems into underwater graveyards.

But scientists have discovered a set of coral superheroes who might save the day.

Speakers:

David Suggett: Associate Professor The University of Technology Sydney Martina Doblin: Associate Professor The University of Technology Sydney

Producer/Presenter: Miles Herbert

Citizen scientists and members of the public have done everything from discovering species, to documenting sea temperature changes.

Just this year in Australia, an amateur astronomer named Andrew Grey, a mechanic from Darwin, helped scientists discover a whole set of new planets.

But why are people like you, donating their time, to help scientists document and discover. And is crowdfunding the scientific method really trustworthy?

Producer/Presenter: Miles P Herbert

Speakers:

Annette Scanlon: Lecturer School of Natural and Built Environments

John Turnbull: Marine Ecologist and Social Scientist, University of New South Wales

Shuanna Murray: Associate Professor, Climate Change Cluster Core Member, Climate Change Cluster

Illegal logging is an immensely profitable global activity, linked to corruption, human rights abuses, criminal networks, and environmental destruction.

So why is the federal government currently considering significantly weakening regulation that prevents the import of illegal timber?

Speakers:

Beatriz Garcia: Lecturer, Western Sydney University Lance Leslie: Professor, School of Mathematical and Physical Sciences at the University of Technology Sydney

Producer/Presenter: Miles P Herbert

Scientists have warned we are facing another mass extinction event.

The last one occurred over 65 million years ago, but due to global warming and human caused habitat loss, the next one is just around the corner.

So what do we do when a species goes extinct? Are our efforts helping or making things worse?

Speakers:

David Bader, Communications Officer for Vaquita CPR

Professor Michael Archer, School of Biological, Earth, and Environmental Sciences, The University of New South Wales

Peter Banks, Conservation Biologist at The University of Sydney

Erick Lundgren, PHD Canidate at The University of Technology Sydney

Producer/Presenter: Miles P Herbert

Naomi has spent the last two years living in a tent in regional New South Wales. But she's not a backpacker, she's not doing a roundhouse trip of the Australian countryside. Naomi is capturing cane toads and turning them into sausages.

Presenter: Jake Morcom. Producer: Jake Morcom and Miles Herbert.

In April 2010, the largest environmental disaster in US history struck the Gulf of Mexico - the explosion of oil rig Deepwater Horizon. After burning for more than a day, Deepwater Horizon sunk taking with it 11 lives, costing oil major BP more than $40 billion and an onslaught of environmental damage still being felt today. Over the last seven years the blame game for who was responsible and liable jumped back and forth with payouts being made to certain bodies who brought claims against BP for financial losses. But the blowout of a disaster to this scale goes far beyond a slump in tourism or trade in the region.

Speakers: Jesse Fallon - PHD Student at Virginia Tech. Dr Stan Palassis - Senior Lecturer in the Faculty of Law at the University of Technology Sydney. Ana Bugnot - Research Associate at the University of New South Wales.

Presenter: Jake Morcom. Producer: Jake Morcom and Miles Herbert. Editorial guidance from Miles Herbert and Ellen Leabeater.

It's one of the biggest environmental challenges of our time, but no ones seems to be talking about it. And that's because a lot of us don't know that much about it. Dana Cordell from the Institute for Sustainable Futures at the University of Technology Sydney has spent the past decade researching phosphorus, what it is, what it does, why it's so important and how quickly we're running out of it.

Producer/Presenter: Jake Morcom.

We're on break this week while 2SER is in the middle of Supporter Drive. 2SER Radio is the station that makes Think: Sustainability and our two sister programs Think: Health and Digital Futures possible, however running a radio station doesn't come cheap. You can support the Think programs, 2SER and make a tax deductible donation by heading to 2ser.com/donate.

We're on break this week while 2SER is in the middle of Supporter Drive. 2SER Radio is the station that makes Think: Sustainability and our two sister programs Think: Health and Digital Futures possible, however running a radio station doesn't come cheap. You can support the Think programs, 2SER and make a tax deductible donation by heading to 2ser.com/donate.

Today on the show, the carbon footprint of data. On paper that sounds like a contradiction - how can a photo I post to Facebook be affecting the health of the planet? Well, it's not the post itself that's doing the harm, it's the technology that makes it possible. And it's these tech that live in places known as data centres.

Speakers: Ella Barclay - Artist and Graduate Student in the Faculty of Arts and Social Sciences at the University of Technology Sydney. Rodney Gedda - Senior Analyst at Telsyte. Tanya Notley - Lecturer in the Institute for Culture and Society at Western Sydney University.

Producer/Presenter: Jake Morcom.

The Great Barrier Reef has taught us much about marine ecology, but there's still so much we don't know. Do we have enough time to learn everything we can before the natural landmark is lost forever?

Presenter: Jake Morcom. Producers: Miles Herbert and Jake Morcom.

Noise pollution is the only cardiovascular risk that can't be resolved by doctors or medications, it's purely up to the politicians.

Speakers: Kirsten Parris - Associate Professor of Urban Ecology at the University of Melbourne. Thomas Muenzel - Chief in Caridology in the University Hospital in Mainz, Germany. Dino Pisaniello - Professor of Occupational and Environmental Health at the School of Public Health at University of Adelaide. Xiaojun Qiu - Director of the Centre for Audio-acoustics and Vibration at the University of Technology Sydney.

Producer: Miles Herbert, Jake Morcom. Presenter: Jake Morcom.

The first recorded acid rain events date back to the 17th century, but it wasn't until the early 1970s that it became a huge problem. Today, while the global community seems focused on dealing with climate change, what's important about the story of acid rain is not only can it teach us how we can tackle global climate issues but also why we're so bad at doing it.

Speakers: Derek Eamus - Professor of Environmental Sciences at the University of Technology Sydney. Charles Driscoll - Professor in the Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering at Syracuse University, New York.

Producer/Presenter: Jake Morcom.

On 26 November 2012, Australia's iconic Bondi Beach was closed as the crisp, blue coastline turned red. And although many likened the newly blood red waters to that written in scripture, it was in fact algae that was responsible for the beaches temporary pigmentation. Although not necessarily life threatening algal blooms as they're known can be harmful, as dangerous toxins can reside in the water where the bloom occurs and damage important marine life and ecosystems.

Presenter: Jake Morcom. Producer: Jake Morcom and Lia Tsamoglou.

Australia is in the middle of a debate about coal.

The Queensland government is determined to expand its coal production. Indian billionaire Gautam Adani continues to gather support from politicians for his Carmichael Coal Mine in the Galilee Basin.

There has been significant push back from scientists and citizens who know that coal production is the leading cause of CO2 emissions and a huge contribute to global climate change. Despite this fact, politicians and resource companies either are convinced the science is wrong, or are choosing to deny the overwhelming evidence in favor of their commercial interests.

Did climate change denial start with coal, or is it a historical and systemic issue tied to the resource industry and conservative ideologies?

Producer/Presenter: Miles Herbert

Speakers:

Tom Morton: Associate Professor, University of Technology Sydney David Schlosberg: Professor of Environmental Politics at the University of Sydney, and Co-Director of the Sydney Environment Institute. Nick Enfield: Professor of Lingustics, and Co-Director of the Post Truth Initiate at the University of Sydney

In 2015 Australia's Threatened Species Commissioner Gregory Andrews announced a plan to kill 2 million 'feral' cats in an effort to save the countries native species from extinction.

More than two years on the feral cat population has not decreased.

So are culling techniques an effective and humane way of population control?

Producer/Presenter: Miles Herbert

Speakers: Alex Vince: Animal Liberation Kristina Vesk: Cat Protection Society Dr Daniel Ramp: Associate Professor and Director, Centre for Compassionate Conservation at University of Technology Sydney Dr Megan Phillips: Lecturer, School of Life Sciences at University of Technology Sydney Eamonn Wooster: PHD Candidate at Centre for Compassionate Conservation at University of Technology Sydney

You might already eat algae when you pick up a sushi roll. But it turns out algae may be a sustianable substitute for everything from Legos to surfboards to health products.

Presenter/Producer: Miles Herbert

Speakers:

Dr Janice McCauley: Research Fellow, Climate Change Cluster at the University of Technology Sydney

Judy Friedlander: Research Assistant, Institute for Sustainable Futures at the Univeristy of Technology Sydney

Ross Thompson - Chair of Water Science and Director of the institute for applied ecology at the University of Canberra

We don't think about our waste once we flush the toilet. But will climate change and rising sea levels bring it back to our attention?

Presenter/Producer: Miles Herbert

Where will you live when you're 65? Or perhaps you're retiring now, and you're thinking about your options? Cooperative living has come a long way since the hippy communes of the 1960s. It's a choice that's not only good for social wellbeing, but could be helping the environment too.

Presenter: Jake Morcom. Producer: Jake Morcom, Lia Tsamoglou, Cheyne Anderson.

Between the 1960s and early 2000s, over 90% of Lake Chad has shrunk. Today, the lake provides water to over 68 million people in both Chad and Nigeria, and to the surrounding countries of Cameroon and Niger. But as water resources continue to dwindle, how long until Lake Chad is lost for good?

Speakers: Danladi Yunana - Research Teaching Assistant at the Federal University Wukari, Nigeria. Dr Leigh Martin - Scholarly Teaching Fellow in the School of Life Sciences at the University of Technology Sydney. Dr Maryam Esfandbod - Post-Doctoral Research Fellow in the School of Natural Sciences at Griffith University.

Producer/Presenter: Jake Morcom.

Last year, billionaire philanthropist Bill Gates announced his foundation would donate 100,000 chickens to impoverished nations in an effort to help bring them above the poverty line. But with the Bolivian government already slamming the gesture calling it 'offensive', is the plan as feasible as Gates says it is?

Producers: Miles Herbert, Jake Morcom, Lia Tsamoglou. Presenter: Jake Morcom.

Straws and plastic cups aside, how else might your beverage carry a carbon footprint? This week we meet up with the guys from Trolley'd, a bar venture hire with a sustainability ethos to talk how they make a good drink using only organic produce.

Presenter: Jake Morcom. Producers: Cheyne Anderson and Lia Tsamoglou.

They're tailored to the bottom of your shoes, they line the coffee cup you drink from, they're even fixed to the outside walls of your home - how can we possibly escape a world that's dominated by plastic?

Presenter: Jake Morcom. Producers: Jake Morcom, Lia Tsamoglou and Cheyne Anderson.

When Jason was living in New York, he knew the city inside out. Which 24 hour diners were the best for a 3am feed, which cafes had the best lattes. But due to rapid urbanisation, the city he once knew quickly began to change, which brought other complications along with it.

Speakers: Jason Twill - Innovation Fellow in the Department of Design, Architecture and Building at the University of Technology Sydney.

Producer/Presenter: Jake Morcom.

Where many Australians have strong ties with the beach and coast, too comes the love-hate relationship we have with what lies beneath the water's surface. A new research project involving two researchers from the University of Technology Sydney could help identify sharks before they reach close to shore using an artificial intelligence drone technology.

Producers and Presenters: Jake Morcom and Lia Tsamoglou.

As 2SER heads over to New York for the New York Radio Awards, we bring you the episode of Think: Sustainability that was nominated in the Environment and Ecology category. Why'd they name a fly after singing megastar Beyoncé? What do the sounds of small sea creatures say about the wellness of the ocean? And what does a sustainable house look like?

Presenters: Jake Morcom and Ellen Leabeater. Producer: Jake Morcom.

Does steering off meat and turning to a leafy green diet lower the impact of our global carbon footprint?

Hosted by Jake Morcom. Produced by Lia Tsamoglou.

They're cute, they're charismatic, but they're also on the cusp of dying out - can we save the Weedy Seadragon before it's too late?

Hosted by Jake Morcom and Cheyne Anderson. Produced by Jake Morcom.

What is the social sustainability of the built environment? How are we using architectural design to cater for the growing and changing needs of the population?

Speakers: William Feuerman - Senior Lecturer from the University of Technology Sydney. Phillippa Carnemolla - Postdoctoral Research Fellow in the School of the Built Environment at the University of Technology Sydney. Tim Schork - Associate Professor in the Faculty of Design, Building and Architecture at the University of Technology Sydney.

Hosted and produced by Jake Morcom.

Agriculture, mining and climate change are three factors driving up the salinity levels in our freshwater basins. What implications might this mean for the biological diversity of these ecosystems?

Hosted by Jake Morcom and Lia Tsamoglou.

Aside from picking off a berry and kissing your significant other in the doorway, what is the ecological significance of mistletoe?

Speakers: Melinda Cook - Masters Candidate at the University of Technology Sydney. Samira Aili - PHD Candidate from the University of Technology Sydney. Adrian Merrick - Founder of Energy Locals.

Hosted by Jake Morcom and Lia Tsamoglou.

The Garuwanga Project is working to build a legal framework that would protect Aboriginal traditional knowledge of biodiversity. Historically, corporations have taken Aboriginal knowledge from communities and patented those practices, leaving the community without financial reward or even barring them from practicing their own knowledge.

Hosted and produced by Cheyne Anderson and Jake Morcom.

What are our goals when it comes to space exploration? Are we still searching for sentient life beyond Earth? How far away are we from colonising on another planet or celestial body?

Speakers: Dr Alice Gorman - Senior Lecturer in the Department of Archaeology at Flinders University. Steven Freeland - Professor in International Law at Western Sydney University Emily Bathgate - Casual Academic at the University of Technology Sydney.

Hosted by Jake Morcom.

Think about all the electrical devices in your home. Your phone, kettle, computer, washing machine... the list goes on. It's estimated that each household in Australia has 350 kilos of electrical material, and we chuck out 35 kilos of the stuff per person per year. And the worst part? Australia only recycles 10% of our e-waste. So what do we do with all those cables and devices? In a special collaboration with Think: Digital Futures, we delve deep into the e-waste problem to try and find some solutions.

Producers/Presenters: Jake Morcom Ellen Leabeater

Speakers: Spyro Kalos - Manager, Mobile Muster Ashleigh Morris- Researcher, University of New South Wales Damien Giurco - Professor in Resource Futures, University of Technology Sydney Dr Neil Gordon - Lecturer in Computer Science, University of Hull, England Benjamin Gaulon - Media artist and Associate Professor, New School Parsons Paris Erin Lewis Fitzgerald - Founder and Managing Director of Bright Sparks

For more info visit 2ser.com/thinksustainability

To hear more from Ellen Leabeater, subscribe to Think: Digital Futures in your podcast app.

Think: Digital Futures and Think: Sustainability are supported by 2SER and the University of Technology Sydney.

Your typical car will emit near 5 metric tonnes of carbon dioxide per year. Multiply that by the number of drivers in the world and the figure becomes scarily high. Electric or hybrid cars are one way to put a plug in greenhouse gas emissions but how do they work? And will they ever come down in price?

Hosted by Jake Morcom and Cheyne Anderson.

Chemical pesticide use in Sri Lanka is widespread and subsidised by the government, but are they doing more harm than good? This week Think: Sustainability addresses some of the global concerns around pesticide use and why organic farming is often thrown to the wayside.

Hosted by Jake Morcom and Lia Tsamoglou. Produced by Jake Morcom and Cheyne Anderson.

Bee populations around the globe are in crisis, what can we do to save them? Also, what is thunderstorm asthma and how will it get worse with climate change?

Hosted by Jake Morcom and Lia Tsamoglou.

This week we look at two different angles of how we need to work to preserve Antarctica - the international law and policy in place to protect it, and the science telling us what's happening now, and what's going to happen in the future.

The weaving practices of Kullu are one of their oldest traditions, but how can a hand-made crafting industry compete with big business? Think: Sustainability takes a trip to the bottom of The Himalayas to look at sustaining an old, regional culture and we look at how climate change is making turbulence worse on international flights.

Hosted by Jake Morcom and Lia Tsamoglou.

Predictions from climate scientists are indicating more frequent climate events like flash flooding, drought and heatwaves are on the way. How will not only we deal with these climate events, but the towns, cities and systems we've built around us?

Hosted by Jake Morcom and Lia Tsamoglou.

Get a little nutty with your spending around Christmas time? This week we take a hard look at consumption and spending during the festive season and even through in some tips to green up your holiday break. Also, a new tracking technology that could help us detect sharks before they swim too close into shore.

Ever wondered what a trip to Antarctica would be like? This week we speak to Jess Melbourne-Thomas, a research scientist with the Australian Antarctic Division about her trip and tumbles down to the most challenging continent on Earth. Also, what will America's policy towards climate change look like under a Trump presidency?

A governmental review is re-evaluating the protection zones of Australia's marine parks. This has flagged concerns for marine scientists and ecologists across the country who are worried economic and social interests will take precedence over environmental conservation.

What kind of creepers and crawlers does summer time bring out? This week we dissect exactly what will be causing you grief in the insect department coming into the hot months, and it's not pretty.

Hosted and produced by Jake Morcom.

Why are we so scared of climate change? Who are the climate change deniers? What happened at the UN Climate Conference this year? Think: Sustainability takes a hard look at some of the conversations around climate change and addresses why it's an issue that has the world rattled.

Speakers: - Joseph Sikulu from 350 Pacific. - Research Director Dena Fam from the Institute for Sustainable Futures at the University of Technology Sydney - Senior Lecturer Brad Murray from the School of Life Sciences at the University of Technology Sydney. - Chancellor's Post-Doctoral Research Fellow Penelope Ajani from the University of Technology Sydney. - Carol Ride, Convenor of Psychology for a Safe Climate. - Dr Ian McGregor from the UTS Business School.

Hosted and produced by Jake Morcom.

What are the do's and don'ts of sustainable clothes shopping? How feasible is a 100% renewable energy system here in Australia? And how might dehydration help decrease food waste going to landfill?

Hosted by Jake Morcom and Ellen Leabeater. Produced by Jake Morcom.

Located in Wiradjuri country, Murrin Bridge started as a 'mission'. It was a place the government of the time set up to accomodate Aboriginal Australians driven out of their lands. Murrin Bridge is no longer a mission today, but with a population of just over 1400 and a 13km walk separating the community from the main town, facilities and services have become run down and displaced. A brief from the Prime Ministers Cabinet has issued a 'revitalisation project' for Murrin Bridge with specific outlines to develop a community centre, the refurbishment of other local buildings and programs for the community. Allan Teale and Campbell Drake are part of a design team working on the revitalisation of Murrin Bridge. And as a surprise to Allan, a recent revisiting down his family tree linked his ancestors to Wiradjuri country in which Murrin Bridge resides.

Hosted by Jake Morcom and Ellen Leabeater. Produced by Jake Morcom.

Why should we mend the relationship between farmers and dingoes? How are eBooks revolutionising the practice of libraries? And what is phytoremediation?

Hosted by Jake Morcom and Ellen Leabeater. Produced by Jake Morcom.

ENCORE - Life with plastic, ain't fantastic by Think: Sustainability

ENCORE - What do you know about renewable energy? by Think: Sustainability

How can we make Sydney's roads more cyclist friendly? And how long until algae takes over the coal industry?

Presenters: Ellen Leabeater and Jake Morcom. Producers: Jake Morcom.

31 - Bushfire season ignites by Think: Sustainability

Guest: Dr Sherri Mason. Presenter and Producer: Jake Morcom.

How long until we're rid of the courtroom and holding trials online? How are some corals recovering from bleaching? And how can chemistry help us reduce global waste?

Why'd they name a fly after singing megastar Beyoncé? What do the sounds of small sea creatures say about the wellness of the ocean? And what does a sustainable house look like?

Presenters: Jake Morcom and Ellen Leabeater. Producer: Jake Morcom.

They're the most successful feral species to invade the landscape of Australia, but have we finally found a way to stop them once and for all? Also, are we consuming too much seafood? And how is bamboo more sustainable than timber?

Why are we scared of sharks? What is permaculture? And how can fashion be environmentally conscious?

What mushroom can mind control insects? What do you want to do with your body when you die? And what is the Anthropocene?

For National Science Week we look at biohacking, science communication and women in STEM.

23 - How is hair a sustainable resource? by Think: Sustainability

22 - What do you know about renewable energy? by Think: Sustainability

How far can battery technology go? This week we look at advancing battery storage technologies as well as take a Tesla test drive!

What are phytoplankton and why are they so crucial to everyday planetary stability?

Can population growth and the notion of sustainability really go together?

Disasters are hard to forget, but what happens to those who are forgotten when disaster strikes? This week we look at groups who are left on the fringes of care in times of natural disaster crises and also address why these crises are a sustainability issue. Also, we hear about some of the oldest Indigenous rock art formations in Australia and why they're on the brink of destruction.

How different is Indonesia's sanitation system from the rest of the world? What are breathing walls and are they as ominous as they sound? And how would a 'cash for containers' scheme work in Sydney?

Why is Nemo opening up his home for other clownfish? Is it a strength in numbers game when more of their homes are being destroyed? We answer these questions this week as well as look at the potential hazards in the current federal governments plan to cull 95% of the carp in our river systems.

Sydney is in the middle of a light rail uprising, but how many trees have to be cut down in the process? This week we're talking light rail logistics, as well as discussing the finest new delicacy on everyones plate... cane toad sausage!

Today is World Environment Day, so we take a closer look into the dark and depressing world of animal trafficking. Also, we look at why chlamydia is on the rise in koala populations around the country and how treatments are falling short.

Imagine you're at a festival. There's food stalls, heaps of bands to go see and people swarming in masses. Now think about when you're leaving, what do you see? Probably all the rubbish that festival goers have left behind.. Vivid kicked off in Sydney over the weekend, so this week we're looking at what makes a festival sustainable and why the arts is so important in this space. Also, we find out which weeds in the garden you can throw into your dinner and visit a greening small business seminar.

When you're planning a holiday, the first thing on your mind is enjoying time off to relax. But have you ever thought about how your travels can contribute to your carbon foot print? We look at planning your travels with a sustainable motive in mind and how exactly your can green up your holidays. Also, we visit a brekkie bar that's offering a helping hand for the struggling student and a roof technology that can make our buildings and the surrounding areas much cooler.

How are your investments affecting the planet? This week we look at the ethics of our superannuation and trace what unsustainable industries our super can be invested into such as coal mining and fossil fuels. Also, have you ever been approached by a charity chugger on your way to work? We hear some interesting insight into the functions of charity and look at why impact investment is becoming more and more pertinent in this space.

Last week we found out some strange degradable's that you can put into your compost, but what about into your worm farm? This week we're focusing on our squiggly little friends and how they can help in the management of our food waste around the home. Also, we pinpoint some of the most ethical and unethical fashion labels as well as look at some of our most pertinent regenerative sustainability practices.

Want to start a compost at home? It's not as hard as you might think. This week we look at the do's and don't of composting and learn about some degradable's that might surprise you. Also, $8-10 billion of food is wasted each year in Australia with the global number reaching into the trillions. We look at some sustainable food waste solutions as well as look at what affect culling kangaroos could have on our ecological biodiversity.

How do you get to work? Train, bus, car, bike? This week we look at the carbon cost of your commute and which modes of transport are the best and worst in terms of emissions. Also, three engineering students from UTS tell us about their plans for implementing composting toilets in Cameroon, Africa and could community energy help us reach 100% renewable energy?

Where does your poo go when you press the flush button? Who around the world doesn't use a toilet? Am I a bad person for using disposable nappies? These are some of the questions begging answers this week on our sustainability episode dedicated to human waste. We visit a wastewater treatment facility, hear about sanitation in rural, desolate Alaska and quest for the most eco-friendly nappy.

Why are ethical supply chains are sustainability issue? On the show this week we attempt to answer this question by looking back up through the supply chains, as well as hear stories about the inequities faced by Vietnamese migrant workers. Also, the age old question - cats versus dogs. We all love pets, but how sustainable are they really?

It's being called a global epidemic on par with climate change, so what are we trying to do to stop it? This week we look at antibiotic resistance from a number of angles, looking at potential medicinal alternatives and even how Manuka honey can help prevent the spread of infection. Also, Hamburg in Germany is home to the world's first Living Algae Building, but how long before we see one here in Australia?

It seems like we're in the age of the coffee pod - they're quick to use, convenient and tasty. Australians consume more than 3 million pods a day, and with so many ending up in landfill, ridiculous amounts of plastic could sit under the ground for hundreds of years. Also, we re-evaluate if the reduce, reuse, recycle model is still an effective motto and we meet our first sustainability champion.

Ahead of World Water Day on Tuesday March 22, this episode we're looking at current approaches to water conservation and what needs to change to protect the finite resource. We look back at Australia's 'Milennium Drought' and what we're doing to help California in their current drought crisis, as well as expand on the practice of groundwater extraction and reassess how many people today are using rainwater tanks.

Earth Hour is coming into its tenth year, but with more and more people thinking about energy conservation, is it time to switch things up? Also we dive into some of the coral ecosystems which are adapting to climate change pressures; and look at how we're going to keep growing produce in the declining Sydney basin.

What is sustainability? What does it mean for me? How can I live sustainably? On Episode 1 we look at answering these questions as well as look back at how sustainability has transformed over time.