Mark Maslin

Joanna Depledge, an expert in international climate negotiations, joins climate change professor Mark Maslin and energy policy professor Jim Watson to tackle the effectiveness of climate summits. They assess the current urgency around COP29 and discuss the challenges of achieving meaningful outcomes. The trio dives into the historical context of major agreements like Kyoto and Paris, and the impacts of political shifts, highlighting the crucial role of climate finance. They also explore the unique dynamics of negotiations, including how even food and ambiance can influence discussions at these critical meetings.

Mark Maslin, a climate scientist from University College London, dives into the alarming collapse of Earth's natural carbon sinks, crucial for absorbing half of our pollution. He discusses the dire need for reforestation and enhancing these ecosystems amidst a climate crisis fueled by greenhouse gas emissions. Alongside this, the podcast touches on a controversial Nobel Prize in Physics awarded to AI researchers and explores the fascinating impact of gaming on cognitive skills versus traditional exercise.

Join Mark Maslin, a climate change expert, Catherine Heymans, Scotland's Astronomer Royal, and Penny Sarchet, managing editor of New Scientist, as they tackle fascinating questions from listeners. Discover why the Moon is barren while Earth thrives with life. Delve into the mysteries of Tesla's free electricity theories. Learn about the potential for new organisms to evolve to consume microplastics, and the environmental impact of lithium-ion batteries. This lively discussion unearths scientific curiosities with humor and insight.

Join Catherine Heymans, Astronomer Royal for Scotland, Mark Maslin, climate expert, and Penny Sarchet, Managing Editor at New Scientist, as they tackle burning science questions. Discover why planets are round and how geese communicate in flight. They also delve into climate change tipping points, emphasizing the urgency of international action to prevent catastrophic shifts, and unravel the mystery of why garden snails ascend buildings. Plus, find out why your laundry gets trapped in duvet covers, blending humor with science!

Mark Maslin, a Professor of Earth System Science at University College London, discusses the crucial role trees play in combating climate change. He warns that while trees are essential in absorbing CO2, relying solely on planting them won't solve the problem. The conversation also touches on deforestation challenges, the need for fundamental changes in land use, and the importance of reforestation. Additionally, insights into air quality and the alarming decline of UK house sparrows add depth to the discussion.