Planet
2025: a hive of innovation
From seaweed buttons to bee hotels, Australian innovators are tackling some of the planet's biggest challenges. We take a look at some of the year’s highlights.
Household
Cool roof, fresh water
The University of Sydney has developed a paint-like coating that could keep buildings cooler and produce water from the air.
Planet
Pocket forests sprout up nationwide
Tiny native forests based on a 1970s planting method developed by a Japanese botanist are taking root across the country.
Energy
Regions rally behind clean energy
Poll results show that backing for renewables holds strong at 62% in spite of online trolling and misinformation campaigns.
Agtech
Boost for bovine burp buster
Number 8 Bio has raised funds to help take its methane-cutting capsules from the lab to the paddock.
Planet
Earthshot winners shine in Rio
Projects from Brazil to Bangladesh awarded £1 million each for pioneering solutions to restore nature, cut pollution and protect communities.
Planet
Fresh start for sushi staple
As single-use plastic bans come into force, Aussie designers unveil a compostable alternative to the mini soy-sauce fish dropper.
Planet
Nobel win for chemistry trio
A university researcher in Australia shares the chemistry Nobel Prize for pioneering new materials that could solve environmental challenges.
Planet
City skyscraper makes the cut
Sydney's Quay Quarter Tower has been named as one of the Earthshot Prize finalists as the world’s 'first fully upcycled skyscraper'.
Household
Seaweed buttons make waves
Alt-plastic startup Uluu has secured its first fashion customer: luxury sleepwear brand Papinelle.
Infotech
Cool change for AI factory
The developer of a next-generation AI data centre in Tasmania has raised funding as it seeks to address power and water-security concerns.
Planet
Seabin turns trash into data
A new litter monitoring and removal program will study the movement of waste in waterways around Sydney airport.