Faith communities in Australia and around the world are not waiting for reluctant politicians to take decisive action on climate change. They taking personal action as part of the global multi-faith campaign, “Living the Change".

Can Christian schools maintain their beliefs and approach the issue of gay students and teachers with compassion, tolerance and understanding? Open House took a timely, deep dive into the important questions of religious freedom, anti-discrimination law and human rights that faith-based schools are negotiating their way through.

New research led by the University of Sydney, has revealed the life expectancy of chocolate Labradors is significantly lower than their black and yellow counterparts. Professor Paul McGreevy says it was a surprise finding and warrants further investigation as Labradors are the most popular pet dog in Australia.

For the first time, scientists are reporting evidence that people around the world are ingesting microplastics. Will it be enough to shock us into action? Boomerang Alliance Deputy Director, Jane Paramor talks to Stephen O'Doherty about the world's rubbish crisis.

What does it mean to be spiritual? Can you also be religious? Just how do Australians see themselves and their connection to faith, community and church? New research released at an important summitt sheds light on those questions about our inner life. The research also examined the reality of our world and how we would like it to be.

The International Criminal Court (ICC) prosecutes serious international crimes, including genocide, war crimes, and crimes against humanity. What should we make of US National Security Advisor John Bolton's condemnation of the ICC? Dr Carrie McDougall, has first-hand experience of dealing with the ICC and believes it is important to have an independent international body to deal such serious issues.

Dr Peter White from the University of New South Wales reasoned that the DNA of the hardy pest just might provide a weapon to halt their destructive impact on the environment. Dr White was shocked to discover that no one has ever mapped the DNA of the cane toad - so he decided to fix that.

Around the world scientists and ordinary citizens are mourning the destruction of millions of priceless scientific and cultural items in the catastrophic fire at the 200 year old National Museum of Brazil in Rio de Janeiro. Expert Australian conservator, Professor Robyn Sloggett (AM), says the deep sadness we feel about the loss of this enormous collection is because humans have intense affection for the past as it is such a part of how we make sense of who we are.