The Battle Against Desert Locusts

4min Snip

00:00

Play full episode

Summary

Transcript

Episode notes

Exploring the threat of desert locusts and the innovations in agricultural research to combat their destructive impact on crops. The chapter delves into the evolution of locusts, the influence of climate change, and the technological solutions like drones and biopesticides being employed to manage this global pest problem.

Apple and Alphabet operate what is in effect a smartphone-app duopoly. Governments want to curb their power, but it is not clear whether more competition would change things. We ask why India’s election is so eye-wateringly expensive; the country’s size is not the only answer (08:59). And new approaches in the old fight against swarms of locusts (14:07).

Get a world of insights for 50% off—subscribe to Economist Podcasts+. For more information about how to access Economist Podcasts+, please visit our FAQs page or watch our video explaining how to link your account.