This podcast discusses the increasing frequency and severity of wildfires, the potential collapse of the Gulf Stream, the impact of tyre pollution on health and wildlife, and a cyclist's experiment with glucose monitors while cycling across the country.
Climate change is worsening wildfires globally, increasing their frequency and intensity.
Investing in wildfire prevention measures is more effective and cost-efficient than solely relying on fire suppression.
Deep dives
Wildfires and Climate Change
Wildfires are becoming more frequent, and extreme temperatures from climate change have worsened the problem. The Mediterranean region has experienced a particularly bad wildfire season due to higher-than-usual temperatures and dry conditions. While scientists acknowledge that wildfires have always been a part of the natural ecosystem, climate change has fueled the problem by increasing the likelihood of hot and dry weather. The future outlook for wildfires is concerning, as each degree of warming is expected to exacerbate the issue, leading to more extreme fires globally.
Investing in Preventative Measures
The focus on preventing wildfires should be increased rather than solely relying on fire suppression. Currently, there is a disproportionate amount of investment in suppressing fires compared to implementing preventative measures. Experts argue that more funding should be allocated to measures that reduce the flammability of landscapes, such as creating more fire-resistant materials and improving building regulations. Countries like Portugal have already shifted their focus towards prevention, with nearly 50% of their public expenditure now dedicated to mitigation measures. Shifting the investment towards prevention is more cost-effective in the long run, as it reduces the damage caused by wildfires.
The Environmental Impact of Tire Pollution
Tire pollution, particularly from tire wear particles, is a growing environmental concern. These particles are released into the environment when tires are in use and can have detrimental effects on both human health and wildlife. Research shows that tire wear particles are small enough to enter the bloodstream and affect various cells in the body, including the brain. These particles can also contaminate water and food sources, resulting in potential health risks. Efforts to reduce tire pollution include developing more wear-resistant tire materials, improving driving habits to minimize tire wear, and exploring the possibility of selling mileage-driven tires rather than focusing on tire replacements.
The Impact of Traffic on Wildlife
The impact of traffic on wildlife goes beyond roadkill. Traffic pollution, including noise and exhaust emissions, poses a serious threat to biodiversity. Road noise pollution, in particular, disrupts wildlife habitats and affects their movements. Animals have different approaches to crossing roads, including blind crossing, pausing and crossing in stages, and speeding across. However, many species have become avoiders and no longer cross busy roads, leading to fragmented populations and isolation. This fragmentation affects species' long-term survival and contributes to the decline of biodiversity.
We're in the heart of summer in Europe, where extreme heat has spiralled into out-of-control wildfires across the Mediterranean, leading thousands to flee their homes.
Previously on Inside Science we've looked at how and why temperatures are soaring across the globe. Now we're homing in on one of the most visible effects of that.
First, BBC climate and science reporter Georgina Rannard paints a picture of the link between these fires and climate change.
Next up we hear from Professor Stefan Doerr, director of the Centre for Wildfire Research at Swansea University, on whether Europe is prepared for a future where these blazes are more frequent and intense.
Another effect of climate change you might have heard about this week is the potential collapse of the Gulf Stream. Georgina explains why leading researchers have reservations about the science behind that claim.
We investigate a sometimes overlooked and under-reported source of pollution: particles from vehicle tyres. Dr Marc Masen from Imperial College London tells us about the impact they’re having on our health.
And pollution from tyres is affecting flora and fauna too. Dr Paul Donald, senior researcher at Birdlife International, explains how vehicles on our roads have impacted wildlife in the environment.
Finally, from four wheels to two wheels! Geneticist and body weight scientist Dr Giles Yeo is cycling from Land's End to John O'Groats with two glucose monitors on his arm. He tells us what he's hoping to learn.
Presenter: Marnie Chesterton
Producer: Hannah Fisher
Content producer: Alice Lipscombe-Southwell
Research: Patrick Hughes
Editor: Richard Collings
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