Environment & Sustainability

EnvironmentEnvironment & Sustainability

Green Spaces, the key to better mental health in urban living

By Michael Casey

As another year draws to a close, I find myself reflecting on the past twelve months and the unrelenting pressures of urban life which I’m sure we all have experienced. The toll on mental health is undeniable, yet a simple remedy lies in green spaces.Continue reading

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EnvironmentEnvironment & Sustainability

AIPH Green Cities Awards 2024

Revitalising cities and minds through nature

By Michael Casey

Honouring cities that lead the way in urban greening: The AIPH World Green Cities Awards celebrate innovation, biodiversity, and sustainable urban development.

The International Association of Horticultural Producers (AIPH) is a global organisation dedicated to promoting the horticulture industry and its role in improving environmental sustainability.… Continue reading

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EnvironmentEnvironment & Sustainability

Greener cities, brighter future

Nature’s role in urban resilience

By Michael Casey

At the Future Green City World Congress, experts explored how urban greening enhances health, sustainability, and resilience while addressing the key challenges of designing modern cities.

This year’s Future Green City World Congress took place in Utrecht, Netherlands, and exceeded expectations with its vibrant atmosphere, engaging people, and inspiring urban greening projects.… Continue reading

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EnvironmentEnvironment & Sustainability

Climate change is complicating revegetation

By John Fitzsimmons

Revegetation is a complex specialist subject built on knowledge and experience of many interconnected fields. It is now an integral process in repairing damage to landscapes following fire or damaging weather events, post-mining or other industrial activity, and re-connecting disrupted ecosystems.Continue reading

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EnvironmentEnvironment & Sustainability

Working together to rehabilitate country

By Dr Chris Reed

Climate change has increased the intricacy of our land management. As an industry we need to look more intently at environmental rehabilitation and continue to put into place strategies that protect our ecosystems, lives and livelihoods. 

I have always been a bit of a bush kid.… Continue reading

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Environment & Sustainability

Less plastic, more fantastic

By Lisa Wightwick

Over the past few years, the term ‘sustainability’ has been increasingly utilised in the world’s collective vocabulary. This greater awareness of anthropogenic environmental impact has necessitated products and practices that either minimise or negate them. Ironically, the horticulture industry, particularly the production sector, isn’t actually as ‘green’ as it might seem.Continue reading

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BiodiversityEnvironment & Sustainability

Green roofs and biodiversity: building sustainable cities from the top down

By Michael Casey

Biodiversity is increasingly recognised as a driving force behind many of our urban greening projects worldwide. As cities expand, they face the challenge of preserving and enhancing natural ecosystems, leading to a surge in biodiversity-centred urban planning.

Biodiversity in urban environments contributes to ecosystem services, such as improved air quality, climate regulation, and enhanced human well-being.… Continue reading

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EnvironmentEnvironment & Sustainability

Making Water Work

By Stuart Elder

‘Making Water Work’ is the name of the Water Hyacinth Harvesting Pilot Project at Murray Lagoon, Rockhampton Botanic Garden. Murray Lagoon is a vital ecosystem and community resource situated at the gateway to Rockhampton City in Central Queensland on Darumbal Country and is a significant natural asset.Continue reading

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Environment & SustainabilitySustainable Landscaping

From concept to construction – easing the path to greener builds

By Michael Casey

The integration of greenery into the built environment is gaining momentum as urbanisation continues to reshape cities worldwide. The movement towards developer-led greenery inclusion is driven by the need for sustainable development, improved quality of life, and recognition of the multifaceted benefits that green spaces provide.Continue reading

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Environment & Sustainability

Shade and tree coverage, critical amid rising urban heat

By Michael Casey

The World Meteorological Organisation (WMO) confirmed 2023 was the warmest year on record. The annual average global temperature in 2023 was close to 1.5°C above pre-industrial levels, a significant benchmark set by the Paris Agreement to limit long-term temperature increases.Continue reading

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