Animal migrations are spectacular phenomena that have fascinated humanity for millennia. They also play vital roles in ecosystem processes, transferring nutrients, carbon, energy and genes, and supporting cultural resources and traditions. However, migratory populations are in an alarming decline due to the manifold threats they face in our rapidly changing world. This issue of environmental SCIENTIST explores the complexities of animal migration and the actions needed to reverse declines in the numbers of terrestrial, marine and avian travellers making these impressive journeys. Read about the system considerations of migration, the importance of international cooperation for saiga antelope conservation, the fascinating multigenerational monarch butterfly migration, and initiatives to improve the future of the European eel.

We spend an average of 90 per cent of our time indoors, and good indoor air is paramount for our optimum health, wellbeing and productivity. However, indoor air is often contaminated with pollutants from indoor sources, as well as those that have migrated from outdoors, and thus may potentially present a greater risk to our health than outdoor air. This issue of the environmental SCIENTIST examines aspects that are important to understanding how to achieve good indoor air quality. Read about the importance of good indoor air, a monitoring campaign in nurseries and schools, and indoor air quality considerations for companies returning to the office following Covid-19.

From marine pollution to the unsustainable production of food and our changing climate, the wellbeing of people and the ocean is inextricably intertwined. The Decade of Ocean Science for Sustainable Development (2021-2030) aims to provide a framework to generate the global ocean science needed for sustainable development of our shared ocean. This edition of the environmental SCIENTIST examines the 10 challenges of the Decade where efforts will be concentrated. Read about the impacts of climate change on coastal systems, actions needed for sustainable marine food production, building resilience to coastal hazards, and how marine professionals and coastal residents can work together to increase ocean literacy. 

Environmental education can provide significant benefits above and beyond environmental knowledge. This edition of the environmental SCIENTIST examines opportunities for environmental education – from primary and secondary school to study at university or participation in environmental outreach activities – and the value of widespread environmental literacy to individuals, societies and in addressing global sustainability issues. Read about the role of young people in the environmental movement, career paths that can follow an environmental education, and how to educate for an environmentally resilient economy.

Recognition of feedback between human activities and our supportive ecosystems, in turn affecting human health, economic prospects, security and opportunity, has been well documented. In this edition of the environmental SCIENTIST, we explore the need for a new paradigm that places ecosystems and their processes at the centre of societal thinking, policy, fiscal systems and resource use habits, ultimately reconnecting society with its ecological roots. Read about how a systems approach could provide positive transformations for human health, water management, flood regulation, defence, nature conservation and many more areas.