Nick Marsh

Billions of dollars have been pumped into the promise of a climate-friendly way of producing meat, but is growing a steak in a lab any better for the planet than rearing a cow on a farm? Supporters of the idea say it will dramatically reduce the impact of livestock, which is responsible for about 15% of the world’s planet-warming gases, as well as returning huge amounts of land to nature. But studies suggest cultivating meat in a lab might actually be worse for the planet, at least in the long-run – we put both claims to the test. Plus, ten years on from the unveiling of the world’s first lab-grown meat, we ask why it’s still only available to buy at one restaurant in Singapore, and only on Thursdays.Presenter Graihagh Jackson is joined by: Tasneem Karodia, co-founder of Mzansi Meat, in South Africa; John Lynch, postdoctoral research associate at the University of Oxford, in the UK; Nick Marsh, the BBC’s Asia business correspondent, in SingaporeProducer: Simon Tulett Researcher: Matt Toulson Series Producer: Alex Lewis Editor: China Collins Sound engineer: Tom Brignell Production Coordinators: Debbie Richford and Sophie Hill

Graihagh Jackson, a climate change expert from the BBC, and Nick Marsh, the Asia business reporter, dive into the contentious world of lab-grown meat. They discuss why some countries are banning this innovative food before it even hits the shelves, highlighting Singapore's progressive stance contrasted with Italy's push to preserve traditional practices. The duo also tackles production costs, ethical dilemmas, and the potential environmental benefits of lab-grown meat, all while navigating the skepticism and regulatory challenges it faces globally.

In this gripping discussion, Nick Marsh, a BBC reporter in Singapore, delves into the lawsuit against Binance, alleging it enabled terrorist groups to move $1 billion. He reveals that over 300 plaintiffs accuse Binance and founder Changpeng Zhao of complicity with groups like Hamas. Marsh also explores post-attack fund transfers, Zhao's prior legal troubles linked to a money-laundering case, and the political ramifications of his pardon by Trump. Additionally, he touches on broader issues like the risks to Europe’s undersea cables.

Justin Rowlett, a BBC climate reporter, discusses the pressing issue of Brazil's soy moratorium protecting the Amazon rainforest from agri-business interests wanting it lifted. He highlights the risk of severe deforestation and its impact on local ecosystems and farmers. Meanwhile, Nick Marsh sheds light on the fallout from political tensions between China and Japan, emphasizing the dire economic implications for travel and retail as China warns its citizens against visiting Japan, creating chaos in the market.

Nick Marsh, a BBC correspondent in Singapore, dives into the warnings from Australia's intelligence chief about escalating cyber threats from China-backed hackers targeting vital infrastructure. He details the economic ramifications of this espionage, estimating losses at $8 billion. Meanwhile, Paul Nidja, reporting from Senegal, highlights the challenges fishermen face due to a new offshore gas platform, including restricted access to fishing grounds and skepticism about promised environmental protections. Both guests provide insightful context on pressing global issues.