Down to Earth blog All posts

How does starting a fire help ease a fire? Find out everything you need to know about planned burns, from how they work to why we use them.

Look up! We’ve found the best locations in Queensland to catch some celestial action.

Discover how you can contribute to research, explore the natural world, and be part of a growing community of citizen scientists.

Want to combat the cost of living and help our environment? Make some of these easy energy-efficient changes and watch your savings stack up.

Not sure when to plan your K’gari trip for? Here’s everything you need to know to find your ideal time.

How can we tackle Queensland’s waste management issues? We break down the government’s ten-year plan.

We’re shining a spotlight on some of Queensland's most iconic birds found nowhere else in the world!

The gentle dugong is crucial to maintaining balance in the Great Barrier Reef. Learn about the threats they are facing and our protective efforts.

Your easy explainer on artificial reefs: what they are, how they’re made, and the role they play in helping our oceans.

Australia is officially back in an El Niño climate cycle. Here are the impacts El Niño may have on Queensland.

Queensland has declared Australia’s first two conserved areas – but what does that mean? Here’s what you need to know.

Curious about some of Queensland’s more unconventional sea creatures? We’ve done a deep dive to bring you the scariest, creepiest, and most bizarre of the bunch.

Want to keep your fruit and veg fresher for longer? Here are our storage tips for some of the most popular produce in Australia.

Spruce up your space with these easy-to-care-for native Australian plants.

Got some unwanted visitors in your home? Here’s how to safely and humanely discourage snakes, possums, and other wildlife from moving in.

Feeling the burnout of modern life? Getting in touch with your greener side can help ease the mental load.

Found a native animal in distress? Here’s everything you need to know to (safely) help.

Whether you’re a seasoned pro or curious newcomer, we’ve got some essential birdwatching tips.

The plants in the Great Barrier Reef don’t just look cool – they play a vital role in keeping the ecosystem running! We’ve highlighted some of the prettiest (and weirdest) plants you can find in the Reef.

Whether you like a challenge or prefer something more leisurely, we’ve handpicked some of our favourite hiking trails in Queensland national parks.

Ready to unlock your inner palaeontologist? Australia's Dinosaur Trail is right here in Queensland – so hit the road to check it out!

An oyster reef installation at Balban Dara Guya (Leekes Creek) is doubling up as a large-scale First Nations artwork – the first of its kind in Australia. Take a closer look at how it came together.

Don’t be alarmed by the lean frames of K’gari’s dingoes – we're here to set the record straight on dingo diets and body types.

How do scientists determine if a species is on the brink of extinction? Find out how we assess which threatened plants and animals need the most immediate help.

Storm season in Queensland is more than just a bit of rain. Learn practical tips on how to prepare and stay safe for wild weather.

Curious about composting? Get to know the basics, then follow some simple steps to set yourself up at home.

Want some beautiful, low-maintenance plant inspo? We've found some stunning varietals that can actually thrive in Queensland heat.

Crocodiles are some of Queensland’s oldest residents – learn a little more about these fascinating creatures (and how to coexist with them safely).

How much do you know about the southern cassowary? Here are 10 fast facts to test your knowledge.

Looking for some Queensland-centric trivia? Here are 9 fast facts that prove how unique our state’s natural environment is.

Want to create the perfect low-maintenance summer garden? We’ve got some great tips to help your greenery thrive in the heat.

Kick off your year with a resolution that reduces your environmental footprint! Discover effortless ways to embrace a more sustainable lifestyle.

Summer is a time for festivities, but it unfortunately can leave behind a trail of waste. Here are some ways you can celebrate sustainably.

Don’t sweat it – we've got easy tips to help you safely make it through a Queensland heatwave.

Dealing with floods can be extremely stressful, but some key preparations can help minimise danger for you and our wildlife.

These gentle sea cows have a lot of similarities – here are some easy ways to tell dugongs and manatees apart.

Ready to head into nature? We’ve got some easy tips to make your next hike or bushwalk as safe and comfortable as possible.

Learn how Queensland’s Indigenous Land and Sea Rangers combine traditional knowledge and western science practices to protect Country, strengthen culture, and build partnerships across the state.

There’s still a lot of mystery surrounding stranding whales, but we’ve rounded up the scientifically backed theories that attempt to explain this sad phenomenon.

Our koalas are more than just a pretty face – here are some fun facts about their bellies, bums, and more.

Spotted some animal scat? The poo could be a clue! Learn how to identify Queensland wildlife by what they leave behind.

Need a serotonin boost? Learn more about some of Queensland’s cutest creatures. 

Turn your home garden into a safe haven for native animals with these easy tips.

The northern hairy-nosed wombat was once on the brink of extinction – here’s your behind-the-scenes look at the exciting project helping to recover the species.

When it comes to bushfire preparedness, having a thorough plan makes all the difference. Follow these steps to prepare your property for emergency.

From bioacoustics wizards to space-death specialists, we’ve tracked down some fascinating Queensland scientists to chat about National Science Week.

From researchers to regulation to remote fieldwork, meet some of the amazing women making waves in Queensland science.

Not sure if a particular plant is friend or foe? Our guide to Queensland weeds can help.

As of 1 September 2023, releasing helium balloons into the sky is banned in Queensland. Here are some sustainable alternatives.

There’s more to the Reef than meets the eye! Unlock the secret inner workings of this natural marvel and learn what is being done to help protect it.

Biodiversity is vital for life on Earth to thrive – but what exactly is it? We demystify one of the natural world’s most fundamental concepts.

Find out more about ecotourism – the travelling ethos that’s based on discovering nature in a way that actively supports it.

Learn all about our country’s small but mighty pollinators, including tips on how to attract native bees to your garden.

Learn all about what’s happening to help protect South East Queensland’s iconic koala population.

Take a closer look at some of Queensland’s cutest (and most fascinating) amphibians – our frogs!

Who is making sure our air is ‘quality’ and how do they do it? We answer the important questions about air quality monitoring in Queensland.

Don’t bin your batteries – we’ve got all the details on how to safely recycle or dispose of your single use or rechargeable batteries, including items with built-in batteries.

We’ve assembled this handy guide to help you identify some of Queensland's most common snake species.

Learn about which household materials you can put in your recycling bin. Common recyclable materials include paper, cardboard, plastic, metal, and glass.

Thanks to their ‘outstanding universal value’, 5 special spots in Queensland are on UNESCO's World Heritage List.

Green spaces, such as parks, gardens, and trees, are essential components of a healthy and sustainable urban environment. Here’s why.

Summer is here and it’s set to be a scorcher. Keep these precautions in mind during hot weather events to keep safe.

You’ve heard about it in the news, but what is coral bleaching and how does it happen? We step you through the facts about this phenomenon.

Avoid those feathered dive-bombs! Learn why magpies swoop and how to stay safe during Australia’s magpie swooping season.

Dingo sticks are a crucial tool for staying safe on K’gari – find out what a dingo safety stick is and how to use it.

Once we acquire protected areas in Queensland, what happens? Here are all the factors that go into keeping these pockets of precious biodiversity alive and thriving.

From underground hospitals to haunted inns and Netflix-famous clock towers, we’ve scoured the state to bring you some hidden heritage gems in Queensland.

Not sure how to recycle properly? We’re here to separate Queensland recycling facts from fiction – and help you get your recycling sorted.

From 3D-printed medicine to clever conservation and musical maths, Queensland scientists are at the forefront of their fields doing fascinating work. Get to know some of our state’s brightest minds a little better.

Want to help the save the environment and cut down on grocery costs? Follow our simple steps to fight food waste.

We love our pets, but sometimes they can get a little excited around native wildlife. These responsible dog ownership tips can help our wild and domesticated furry friends live in (safe) harmony.

Meet some of the Reef’s most dashing shell-ebrities – the turtles! Learn more about these rare and ancient sea creatures.

From encouraging biodiversity to fostering a strong economy, Queensland’s protected areas do more for the state than you might think! Learn all about why these spaces are so important.

From Baffle Creek to Double Island Point, the Great Sandy Marine Park zones and designated areas have changed – here's what you need to know.

Discover how you can contribute to protecting the Great Barrier Reef through citizen science projects.

Queensland is Australia's most biodiverse state. In amongst the koalas and kangaroos are some of nature’s deadliest animals. Learn more about them.

Don't throw away your glass! Give those jars and bottles a new life instead. Here are some handy ways you can repurpose them.

Understanding the dingo’s role in K'gari's unique ecosystem and treating them with respect isn't just a responsibility when visiting; it's a commitment to preserving the Island’s natural wonder.

Over spring and summer, koalas start to look for mates and new territories. Here's what you need to know to help keep them safe.

Embrace sustainability through recycling. Follow these steps to correctly dispose of your waste. Master the recycling do’s and don’ts for eco-friendly living.

Discover how to safely assist stranded marine mammals. Learn the essential steps to follow. Your responsible actions can make a significant difference.