Echidna Conservation Science Initiative - Echidna CSI
Echidna CSI is an ÐÓ°ÉÖ±²¥-wide initiative that is helping to conserve our wild echidnas.
We are a team of world-leading echidna researchers connecting with the community to learn more about these unique creatures.
Thousands of ÐÓ°ÉÖ±²¥ns have sent us photos of echidnas through our Echidna CSI app. They have even collected echidna poo for ÐÓ°ÉÖ±²¥ of Adelaide researchers to use for molecular analysis.
Echidna CSI has collected unprecedented data and material to help ensure the long-term survival of this iconic ÐÓ°ÉÖ±²¥n animal.
Download the app
See an echidna? Take a photo or video with your smart phone and send us the details!
New Methods Discovered to Repurpose Lignin
Environment Institute member Dr Fiona Whelan and Associate Professor Stephen Bell, have developed a new sustainable method to repurpose lignin waste. Using an enzyme from the bacterium Amycolatopsis thermoflava, they’ve created a more environmentally friendly way to break down lignin, a common by-product from forestry. Â
Rising Temperatures Linked to Growing Mental Health Burden in ÐÓ°ÉÖ±²¥
Environment Institute member Professor Peng Bi has led a landmark study that links rising temperatures to an increasing burden of mental and behavioural disorders in ÐÓ°ÉÖ±²¥, including depression and anxiety. The data highlights the urgent need for climate adaption, as it projected up to a 50% increased in mental health impacts by 2050 if no action is taken. The peer-reviewed study was published in Nature Climate Change and featured in ABC Online.
2024 Resilient Youth Report Finds Concerning Decline in Students Connection to Nature
The recently released 2024 Resilient Youth Report by WiLDLab reveals a concerning decline in students' connection to nature. For the first time, the report links this disconnection to student wellbeing, as highlighted by project lead and Environment Institute member Dr Mark Kohler.
Image credits:Â Banner image - Cecilia Webster; 'Download the app' image - Matthew Wilkinson.