Population Sustainability

The debate on population policy requires clear scientific advice about how our population is likely to affect resources, environmental sustainability, the economy and society. CSIRO researches these areas to predict how population policies may affect our sustainability.

CSIRO is committed to the challenge of using science, combined with community and industry knowledge, to make sure that our ecosystems are sustainable for the long term prosperity of Australia.

Restricting Melbourne’s urban sprawl could have a big impact on reducing the city’s water use over the long term, says a CSIRO report launched today to coincide with National Water Week.

Tropical research in Queensland received a boost today with a ceremony to mark the start of construction of the A$32 million Australian Tropical Science and Innovation Precinct (ATSIP) at James Cook University in Townsville.

CSIRO research is helping Australia's government, industries and consumers use resources more sustainably.

By collecting data on the growth of several tree species used for environmental plantings in lower rainfall regions, researchers have improved forest growth models.

CSIRO is modelling integrated systems, undertaking scenario analyses, and balancing the needs of ecosystems, the economy and communities to help improve the sustainability of future resource management.

CSIRO is developing a broad range of tools to assist governments and industry revitalise Australia’s cities, meet emerging challenges and transition to a sustainable configuration.

Australia’s dwindling population of native rats and mice are little seen and even less understood. In this vodcast, CSIRO’s Dr Fred Ford introduces us to some very eccentric creatures, and explains the crucial role they play in maintaining a healthy ecosystem. (4:16)

The Limits to Growth, published in 1972, was a landmark publication when first released, one of the first studies to link the world economy with the state of the environment. In this podcast, Dr Graham Turner talks about his recent study that validates one of the book’s key scenarios. (7:30)

The Gungahlin Homestead in the Australian Capital Territory, is an historic site in the north of Canberra that now serves as head office for CSIRO Sustainable Ecosystems.

Dr Nic Bax is applying his expertise in marine resource management to help understand, manage and conserve our oceans’ biodiversity.

The 2006-07 CSIRO Sustainable Ecosystems (CSE) Sustainability Report reports on the annual sustainability performance of CSE's operations and research activities.

The relaxed beach lifestyle of Mission Beach is under threat from increasing development pressures, as tourism and residential units vie for space with rainforest and wetlands. This poster outlines the current land use and population of Mission Beach and its surrounding areas. (1 page)