Hosted by ANU Institute for Climate, Energy & Disaster Solutions

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Toxic chemical pollution is an often overlooked aspect of climate change. Fossil fuels which contribute to the release of greenhouse gasses are also responsible for the release of toxic chemicals like mercury into the environment. Australian mercury pollution is intrinsically tied to climate change because coal burning is one of the main theorised sources of mercury on Gunaikurnai land. Additionally, rising global temperatures increase the rate of mercury’s conversion to highly toxic methylmercury, and climate disasters like floods could redistribute historic mercury deposits in the environment.

In her research, titled “Mercury Legacy Contamination: A study of mercury pollution from coal-fired power plants and historic gold mining on Gunaikurnai Country (Gippsland), Victoria,” Wiradjuri Gundungurra woman, ANU PhD candidate and recipient of the Game Change Scholarship, Brianna Gordon, focuses on the extent and nature of mercury pollution on Gunaikurnai land (Gippsland, Victoria). This research is part of the larger Lost Mines: The Troubled Legacies of Former Mining Landscapes ARC project. Brianna will also discuss how receiving the Game Change Scholarship has impacted her research.

This webinar will be moderated by Vehia Wheeler, ANU PhD Candidate and previous recipient of the Game Change Scholarship.

Read Brianna’s interview with ICEDS to find out more about her background and research.

More information:

• Our Game Change Fund supports the emerging generation of bright PhD scholars from rural and remote areas to contribute to game-changing climate change research, adaption and mitigation outcomes. Donations are always welcome, and donations above $2 are tax deductible. You can find more information about donating here.
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