Metal organic frameworks could solve everything from water shortages to rotting food. Now Australian scientists have found a way to commercialise it

Defence Housing Australia’s latest development includes many natural features but will it inspire more businesses to take up biophilic design?

Cross-laminated timber towers are becoming more popular thanks to benefits for the environment and occupants – but are they safe and strong enough?

Sharing child pickup duties, getting people to the bus stop and consolidating deliveries are some of the ideas emerging in the Resilient Melbourne Citymart Challenge

A ‘scaled-down model of the great Aussie dream’ – costing just $30,000 – is about to be realised in Gosford, NSW

When it finally opens in September, the complex will have the latest energy efficiency technology – but will it be worth the $2.3bn spent?

‘Natural’ rubber, limestone and corn are some of the sources for more sustainable surfing wetsuits – but are brands missing a fundamental flaw?

Only a small proportion of plastics consumed in Australia is collected for recycling, but it’s what happens after that that could make a difference

Twenty years after BHP left town, one of the largest cities in New South Wales has reinvented itself as a smart city and a home for innovation

Reflecting the sun saves a building’s energy but it can also affect surrounding temperatures and offset carbon emissions

Heatwaves could be deadly for many Australian apartment dwellers if the grid fails, so architects are coming up with ways to manage temperatures passively

Tiny homes are cheap to build, portable and often sustainable, but can they replace the quarter acre block and Hills Hoist?

City trees are under increased threat but research tools show that looking after them will lower temperatures, prevent flooding and reduce pollution

From encouraging bike riding and compostable plates to better recycling, organisers have diverted 98% of waste from landfill – and they want to do more

Businesses and cities are taking up the slack left by government policy, aligning environmental goals with climate science

From brush turkeys to powerful owls, Australia’s rarest wildlife lives in cities –protecting it has benefits for humans too

An integrated energy grid could monitor power shortfalls, predict demand and respond accordingly, according to experts, although data will need to be shared

As city temperatures rise, with a negative impact on health, councils are coming up with some innovative solutions

Along with fresh fruit and vegetables, city farms are providing communities with jobs, start-up programs, knowledge and social connections