Future Tense

This podcast explores the urban heat island effect and its impact on cities. It discusses solutions such as passive irrigation storage pits and district cooling systems. It also examines the impact of extreme heat on infrastructure and equipment and effective strategies to reduce health risks. Additionally, it talks about the development of an app to understand and mitigate heat stress.

The podcast explores the issue of digital inclusion and the divide between those who have access to technology and those who don't. It discusses the challenges faced by marginalized communities and the push for more inclusive healthcare and education. The importance of digital literacy, social engagement, and collaboration is highlighted. The podcast also delves into the digital and learning divide in Australia and the establishment of the Australian Network for Quality Digital Education. Lastly, it examines the use of technology for aging individuals, including AI algorithms to predict falls.

Scientists are studying ancient trees to learn how they have survived for thousands of years, and how this knowledge can help protect forests from climate change. Understanding the distinction between senescence and aging in trees is crucial. Climate change is affecting trees and forests, impacting carbon sequestration. Ancient trees have genetic diversity and can adapt to different climates, but propagating them is challenging. The Archangel Ancient Tree Archive focuses on cloning and replanting ancient trees. Recent research challenges the assumption that ancient trees' growth rate slows down with age, highlighting their importance in carbon sequestration.

This podcast explores the importance of knowing when to end charitable endeavors, rethinking research structures, and the potential loss of critical thinking skills in a time-poor society. It discusses measuring success in charities, building a local speech therapy profession in Cambodia, redefining charity structure and success measurement for long-term impact, overcoming disciplinary barriers in universities, and the consequences of relying on digital tools for information management.

Austrian archaeologist Immo Trinks discusses his ambition to map Europe's underground using 3D scanning technology. This technology can uncover archaeological treasures, check for geological faults under cities and transportation routes. The podcast also explores the use of muon detectors in mine safety, tunnel infrastructure, navigation, and advancements in scanning technology for archaeology.

Hydrofoils are making a comeback as eco-friendly ferries in Sweden and the UK, while Swedish researchers explore electrifying roads. A floating, solar vegie-patch could boost food production in remote communities. Candela is revolutionizing hydrofoil technology for commercial use. Sweden aims to achieve zero net emissions by 2045 with electrified road systems. The podcast also discusses affordability, stability, and future applications of technology, as well as the intense moment when AlphaGo defeats the best Go player.

Cory Doctorow, Canadian sci-fi author and digital rights activist, discusses the concept of 'enshittification' in platform capitalism. He explores how platforms like Amazon, Facebook, and Uber exploit users and create barriers to exit. Doctorow highlights the need for regulation, breaking up monopolies, and empowering users. He also discusses the impact of cheap capital on platform growth and the urgent need to reclaim power in the digital world.

Learn about the use of 3D scanning technology in architecture and the ongoing reconstruction of Lamb House. Explore the balance between automation and creativity in the industry, as well as the advantages of technology in recording and restoring historic buildings. Discover how AI is being incorporated into architecture, and the potential future roles for architects beyond traditional design.

Science and technology alone cannot solve environmental problems; person-to-person engagement is necessary. The podcast discusses the use of 3D models for rapid deployment in fire management, visualizing sea level rise impacts, using gaming strategy for landscape conservation, and involving humans in finding climate crisis solutions. It also explores the importance of local knowledge and participatory mapping for sustainable solutions.

China's experiment with a digital currency aims to make transactions faster, cheaper, and more efficient. It could give China's currency an edge over the US, but trust, surveillance, and international appeal are crucial. The digital Yuan offers benefits like increased access to financial services and streamlined payments. Despite extensive testing, adoption of the digital currency remains low. China's high adoption of mobile payments and determination to develop a universal digital currency have implications for businesses. China's plan to replace the US dollar with a digital currency and de-dollarize its financial system is progressing through Project Enbridge, offering a more efficient transition away from the dollar.