Easter Island has been described by Jared Diamond as the "clearest example of a society that destroyed itself by overexploiting its own resources". Prof Diamond has told and retold the story and drawn a parallel between the ecological disaster he … [Read more...] about Rats Destroyed the Forests on Easter Island: Terry Hunt
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Drought & Temperature: An Update for Australia from David
Jen, I've noticed your recent thread on the long-term hydrological drought affecting eastern Australia. I've whipped off a few charts for you which put this into an historical context based on rainfall data going back to 1900 (some limited earlier … [Read more...] about Drought & Temperature: An Update for Australia from David
Something About Russell
I would like to think that debates at this weblog were won and lost on the quality of the information provided and the logic of the arguments presented, but so often information is judged on the perceived standing of the commentator based on the … [Read more...] about Something About Russell
What is Special About This Drought?
On Monday I posted a graph of rainfall history and suggested that it indicated south east Queensland was not experiencing the worst drought in 100 years - that the current dry spell is not unusual in the scheme of things. I was surprised how many … [Read more...] about What is Special About This Drought?
Remembering When The Murray Flooded
The most severe natural disaster in the history of South Australia will be commemorated this Sunday with the launch of the 1956 River Murray Flood 50th Anniversary Exhibition in Renmark. Read more here. … [Read more...] about Remembering When The Murray Flooded
Peak Oil & Agriculture: Comments & Links
Jennifer, Following are two disturbing reports on "peak oil" you may not have seen. They could have a big impact on intensive agriculture regarding costs. May be some opportunities for communities to grow and supply a lot more of their own produce, … [Read more...] about Peak Oil & Agriculture: Comments & Links