Science Victoria Magazine

Biotechnology is the use of science and technology to harness the power of living things for practical purposes. From designing drugs to developing more sustainable farming methods, biotechnology is a cornerstone of modern research. In this edition, we explore the role of biotechnology in different areas, and how it is offering solutions to some of humanity’s biggest challenges.

With research predominately publicly funded in Australia, much of the work and study is focused on scientific advancement, publications, and securing grants – rather than ‘science’ as a commercial product or service. In this edition we look at the intersection of Science & Business, and some of the ways that science and scientists are succeeding in the market.

Government policies are plans and guidelines that inform and direct actions on topics such as the environment, health, and infrastructure. Effective policies are informed by evidence, after consideration and weighting of relevant data, while also being responsive to new findings. In this edition, we look at the intersection of science & policy, particularly how evidence-based approaches lead to more effective and adaptable decision making.

Victoria is home to a diverse range of environments, which vary based on factors like local climate, water availability, elevation, geology, geomorphology, soils, and others. In turn, these environments are home to different ecosystems, comprising all manner of life that have lived in these niches for centuries. This month, we take a look at some of these different ecosystems, and how we might value and protect them.

The smog from cars and trucks, the lead in our soil from leaded fuel, the sewage overflows, the agricultural and stormwater runoffs, the light and sounds from humans at night, and the remains of macro- and microplastics everywhere. This is just a fraction of pollution sources in our state and country.

Learning and applying scientific concepts isn’t confined to a high school class or a capital city – there are opportunities to engage with STEMM fields right across our state. This month, we look at the education, engagement, and application of STEMM in Victoria. Also in this edition, we celebrate National Science Week 2024 (10 - 18 August), and showcase some of the events on offer in-person and online.

A solid foundational understanding of science and the scientific method is an increasingly valuable tool. Whether it be adapting our communities and industries to the changing climate, pursuing a career in a STEMM field, or using critical thinking to review the quality and value of information, building the level of scientific competency in our state is essential for our collective future.

The impacts of human-driven climate change are increasingly visible. Temperature records are being repeatedly broken, extreme weather events are increasing in frequency, ice sheets are melting, and coastal communities increasingly under threat. In this edition, we focus on climate change in our corner of the planet, and what needs to be done to avoid reaching a point of no return.