Madeleine Cuff

Join Sam Wong, News editor for New Scientist, Catherine de Lange, editor, and Madeleine Cuff, reporter, as they explore awe-inspiring science stories of 2024. Discover how preserved brains are easier to find than thought and the potential of seafloor metallic nodules as geobatteries. They discuss surprising findings about Dyson Spheres and alien life, dive into cultural highlights like the installation 'Breathing with the Forest', and full cheers about flowers that sequester nickel and groundbreaking frog conservation efforts. Plus, a fun quiz tests science knowledge!

In this episode, climate reporter Madeleine Cuff provides crucial insights on COP29 and the alarming rise in global carbon emissions. She discusses the impact of corruption on climate negotiations and critiques the current focus on adaptation over mitigation. The conversation also highlights the unsettling reality of exceeding the 1.5 degrees Celsius threshold. Meanwhile, fascinating topics such as bird migration and the ecological benefits of gophers enrich the discussion, showcasing nature's resilience amid climate challenges.

Madeleine Cuff, a journalist focusing on China's pollution impact, discusses several fascinating topics. She explains how skin transplants in plants could lead to hybrid crops that are more pest-resistant or tastier. Cuff also highlights the unintended consequence of China's pollution reduction, which, while boosting health, paradoxically spikes global temperatures. Lastly, she notes the discovery of 400,000-year-old ivory tools, revealing new insights into the intelligence and skills of our ancient ancestors.

Michael Marshall, a science journalist, delves into the origins of cuneiform writing, highlighting its decentralized development as a cultural tool rather than a bureaucratic one. Madeleine Cuff discusses the urgency of the upcoming COP29 climate conference, amidst disappointing previous meetings. James Woodford reveals Pando, a massive, ancient tree that coexisted with woolly mammoths, possibly making it the oldest living organism. Lastly, Matthew Sparkes shares insights on vampire bats, their surprising running abilities, and their peculiar blood-based diet.

Catherine de Lange, Editor of New Scientist, is joined by Sam Wong and Madeleine Cuff, both key players in science journalism. They explore mind-boggling scientific discoveries, like the finding of preserved brains and metallic nodules on the ocean floor acting as geobatteries. They dive into cosmic questions regarding alien life and celebrate unique cultural highlights from the year. Listeners are treated to a fun quiz on food and animal behavior while enjoying quirky facts, such as the world's largest coral reef and antifungal hospitals for frogs.