Thrivability matters newsletter
Earth at the Crossroads: Human Impacts on Land and Sea
“We are the first generation to feel the effect of climate change and the last generation who can do something about it.”
— Barack Obama
Hope in Geneva: Global Plastic Treaty Talks Take Shape
In early August, world leaders, activists, scientists, and environmental groups gathered in Geneva, Switzerland, for a pivotal round of negotiations on the Global Plastics Treaty—an ambitious UN initiative aimed at ending plastic pollution across the globe.
After years of intense lobbying and drafts, this latest session marks real progress. Countries debated legally binding targets, limits on single-use plastics, and measures to hold corporations accountable across the entire plastic lifecycle.
The Ocean:
Earth’s Climate Powerhouse Part 3 of 3
From plastic waste to chemical runoff and oil spills, pollutants are infiltrating even the most remote marine ecosystems, disrupting the ocean’s ability to function as Earth’s climate buffer (iere.org, 2025).
Each year, millions of tonnes of plastic debris enter the ocean, breaking down into microplastics that are consumed by marine life and even enter our food chain (weforum.org, 2025). Agricultural runoff and sewage carry excess nutrients into coastal waters, causing algal blooms and oxygen-depleted “dead zones” that damage biodiversity and weaken ecosystems’ resilience to climate stress (NOAA.gov, 2024).
Contaminants can alter plankton populations that drive the ocean’s carbon absorption process. Oil and chemical spills impact oxygen exchange and damage critical habitats, such as coral reefs, which act as natural coastal defences against storms and rising seas (dcceew.gov.au, 2011).
Through the Ocean Governance cluster, the THRIVE Project is investigating how to reduce ocean pollution and restore marine health—recognising that protecting the ocean from contamination is vital to securing a stable climate future for all.
Dr. Dayana Mathew, Ph.D. Marine Chemistry, THRIVE Research Assistant
Faith in a
Thrivable Humanity
| There’s been plenty of chatter online about a moment from the recent Coldplay concert. But what hasn’t been talked about enough is this: 👉 Coldplay has cut their tour emissions by 59% compared to their 2016–17 tour. – Kinetic floors that generate energy from dancing fans. – Stages powered by 100% renewable energy. – Reusable battery systems developed with BMW. While social media focused on the drama, the real story is this: Joy, music, and climate responsibility can coexist and scale. |
Hackathon!
THRIVE Project attended the University of Queensland Biodiversity & Nature Hackathon run by the Sustainable Innovation Club.
Flourishing Workshop Catch Up
| Innovation for Flourishing Communities: Poverty, Hunger, Health, & Education: Flourishing Workshop. Read about our speakers and highlights. |
THRIVE WORKshop
August 29th: SCOPE Workshop. Join changemakers, thought leaders, and curious minds to explore themes that are vital for creating a resilient and thrivable world.
August Articles
How Terrestrial Biodiversity Influences Aquatic Diversity
The Impact of Climate Change on Biodiversity Loss
The Effect of Heatwaves on the Health of Wildlife
Impacts of Ocean Acidification: A Growing Threat to Marine Life and Biodiversity
Healthcare During COVID-19: How Has The Pandemic Impacted Health Systems?
Nature’s Filters: Wetlands, Forests, and the Fight Against Water Pollution
Webinar replay
Thriving Minds
Attempt the NEW
Challenge on our website!
Anyone can play and have a chance to win a prize—complete this challenge by the end of this month to win!
Webinar – What’s next?
THRIVE Partnerships
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Until then, do keep on thriving!
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