Asmeret Asefaw Berhe

Asmeret Asefaw Berhe, Director of the Office of Science at the US Department of Energy, focuses on innovative strategies to combat climate change. She introduces the concept of 'Energy Earthshots,' aiming to fast-track groundbreaking solutions, from advancing nature-based solutions to developing new technologies. Berhe emphasizes the critical need for equitable policies rooted in science. With a goal of achieving net zero emissions by 2050, she likens the challenge to a modern moonshot, highlighting the necessity for collective action.

Join soil scientist Asmeret Asefaw Berhe, an expert from UC Merced and Director at the U.S. Department of Energy's Office of Science, as she unveils the hidden wonders of soil. She emphasizes its vital role in supporting life and combating climate change, revealing that soil stores three times more carbon than the atmosphere. Berhe discusses the alarming impacts of soil degradation and shares innovative strategies for revitalization, urging listeners to take action for environmental stewardship on World Soil Day.

Original broadcast date: March 11, 2022. From our planet's underwater caves to its ancient soils, there are entire worlds right beneath our feet. This hour, we explore the subterranean forces that shape our lives above the ground. Guests include cave diver Jill Heinerth, death care advocate Katrina Spade, soil scientist Asmeret Asefaw Berhe, and paleontologist Nizar Ibrahim. TED Radio Hour+ subscribers now get access to bonus episodes, with more ideas from TED speakers and a behind the scenes look with our producers. A Plus subscription also lets you listen to regular episodes (like this one!) without sponsors. Sign-up at plus.npr.org/ted.Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoicesNPR Privacy Policy

Asmeret Asefaw Berhe, a soil scientist at UC-Merced and Director at the U.S. Department of Energy's Office of Science, passionately discusses the often-overlooked importance of soil. She cautions against calling it 'dirt' and emphasizes its role in supporting life. Berhe reveals how degraded soil impacts climate change, urging listeners to recognize its potential for carbon storage. She also shares innovative strategies for enhancing soil health, like tree planting and biochar, highlighting the urgent need for tailored solutions to protect this vital ecosystem.

Jill Heinerth, a renowned cave diver, shares thrilling tales of exploring underwater caves and the dangers they pose. Katrina Spade discusses eco-friendly death care, promoting human composting as a sustainable alternative to traditional methods. Soil scientist Asmeret Asefaw Berhe highlights the vital role of soil in climate change mitigation and encourages climate-smart practices. Lastly, Nizar Ibrahim reveals fascinating insights about Spinosaurus, uncovering its identity as a river-dwelling predator, challenging previous concepts in paleontology.