The protection of native species is central to biodiversity, ecosystem resilience, and cultural heritage. Native plants, animals, and microorganisms provide critical ecosystem services such as pollination, water purification, and soil stability. Yet these species face mounting risks from habitat loss, climate change, pollution, and invasive species. The decline or disappearance of native species not only…

The media plays a pivotal role in shaping public understanding of risks, influencing how individuals perceive, prioritize, and respond to threats. Whether covering public health crises, environmental hazards, or technological innovations, media narratives can amplify accurate information — or spread misinformation that erodes trust and undermines protective action. The challenges of media and risk are…

Pressure vessels — including boilers, storage tanks, and industrial process equipment — are indispensable to modern industry but carry inherent risks if improperly designed, maintained, or operated. Failures can result in catastrophic explosions, toxic releases, or widespread service disruptions, with serious consequences for worker safety, public health, and infrastructure resilience. Regulation of pressure vessels is…

Fine particulate matter (PM2.5) is one of the most harmful air pollutants, linked to respiratory illness, cardiovascular disease, and premature mortality. Arising from vehicle emissions, industrial processes, biomass burning, and natural events such as wildfires, PM2.5 penetrates deep into the lungs and bloodstream, posing serious risks even at low concentrations. Managing PM2.5 is particularly challenging…

Country foods — the traditional foods harvested, hunted, or fished by Indigenous and rural communities — are central to cultural identity, nutrition, and food security. They provide essential nutrients, support community resilience, and reinforce connections to land and heritage. However, these foods can also present risks due to environmental contamination, overharvesting pressures, or changing ecosystems…

Baby formula represents a uniquely sensitive area of food safety and nutrition, given its role as the primary or sole source of sustenance for many infants. Ensuring the safety, quality, and adequacy of infant formula is critical to supporting early childhood development and preventing health risks during a period of profound vulnerability. Contamination incidents, supply…

The transport of dangerous goods — including chemicals, fuels, explosives, and radioactive materials — is essential to modern economies but carries inherent risks. Accidents involving spills, leaks, fires, or explosions can have devastating consequences for human health, the environment, and infrastructure, while also triggering public concern and media scrutiny. The challenge lies in balancing economic…

Food safety is a critical determinant of public health and economic stability. Contaminated food can lead to outbreaks of illness, chronic health effects, and loss of consumer confidence, while also disrupting trade and damaging the reputations of producers and regulators. Risks arise from microbial pathogens, chemical contaminants, allergens, and physical hazards, often exacerbated by complex…

Cognitive decline, encompassing conditions such as dementia and Alzheimer’s disease, represents a growing public health challenge with profound social and economic consequences. As populations age worldwide, the prevalence of cognitive impairment is expected to rise sharply, straining healthcare systems, families, and communities. Beyond direct health impacts, cognitive decline affects workforce participation, caregiving demands, and quality…

Mitigating flood risk goes beyond response and recovery — it involves proactive strategies to reduce the likelihood and severity of impacts before disasters occur. Measures range from physical infrastructure, such as levees, dams, and green stormwater systems, to policy interventions including zoning, building codes, and managed retreat. Climate adaptation and resilience planning now make flood…