Rare Earth

With the general election now two weeks away, Helen Czerski and Tom Heap take a look at how the environment is featuring on the political agenda. They are joined by a panel of guests: energy and climate commentator Sepi Golzari-Munro; senior policy editor at the independent climate news website Carbon Brief, Simon Evans; Chief Executive of the Wildlife Trusts, Craig Bennett; and environment correspondent for BBC News, Matt McGrath. Together they take a look through the manifestos of the main political parties, exploring their policies and pledges when it comes to the environment and wildlife. They ask whether green issues are taking a back seat in this general election compared with previous ones - and if so, why? They examine how the parties are talking about the environment in their campaigning, including the language they're using and how they're positioning environmental concerns in relation to other issues such as healthcare and the cost of living. Do politicians see environmental promises as a vote-winner or a vote-loser? We also hear from the polling organisation YouGov, which has carried out research assessing which issues are most important to voters.Producer: Sarah SwadlingRare Earth is a BBC Audio Wales and West production in conjunction with the Open University.

Nature-writing is going through a renaissance. What started largely with TV tie-ins has evolved into a genre encompassing books about climate change, the countryside, walking, and off-grid living. For Radio 4's new landmark environment and nature series, Rare Earth, presenters Tom Heap and Helen Czerski are joined on-stage at the Hay Festival by Mark Cocker, Philippa Forrester and Chris Thorogood to discuss the purpose of nature-writing, why it's important, and how nature-writing can help shape our understanding of the natural world. Produced by Emma Campbell for BBC Audio Wales and West in conjunction with the Open University Assistant producer: Toby Field

In the first edition of a new series of Rare Earth Tom Heap and Helen Czerski reveal a new phenomenon- 'Greenhushing'. Big corporations that once trumpeted their green credentials are now staying very quiet about the environment. From the left they've been attacked by green zealots eager to expose greenwashing, when their claims don't stand up to scrutiny. Meanwhile from the right any hint of environmental action is condemned as 'woke'. Better, some business advisors believe, to keep quiet about the issue and avoid offending any of their potential customers or falling foul of new regulations.Tom and Helen discover how hotel towels inspired the coining of the term greenwash, by ecologist Jay Westerveld. Moving on to greenhushing, they're joined by business experts and PR gurus to consider the broader impact of business and industry disengaging from the core issue of our time. Solutionist Solitaire Townsend explains why she thinks some greenhushing is a good thing. Tom and Helen take a deep dive into what might be driving greenhushing with the former CEO of French food giant Danone, and now head of the International Sustainability Standards Board, Emmanuel Faber, international trade and sustainability expert Dr Rebecca Harding, and journalist turned PR advisor Piers Scholfield. Producer: Sarah Swadling

Exploring the history of water systems from Victorian sewers to modern super-sewers. Delving into the challenges of restoring river health and the impact of pollution. Discovering the power of water fleas in cleaning up wastewater and the importance of nature-based solutions for river restoration.

Experts Jeremy Werdell from NASA and Jaime Palter from Rhode Island University discuss the oceans' vital role in combating climate change. They explore the ocean's ability to absorb carbon dioxide, the challenges of enhancing its capacity, and the financial and ethical dilemmas in climate initiatives. The podcast also highlights the fascinating sounds of marine life and the importance of storytelling in connecting humanity with the oceans.

Exploring the challenges politicians face in honoring environmental promises, with insights from Sophie Howe, Tara Singh, and Professor Colin Davis. Discussing the impact of political backtracking on green investments, public willingness towards climate action, and the balance between economic growth and conservation. Delving into the importance of sustainable policies, accountability, and writing letters to future generations to support climate policies.

Professor Chris Thomas discusses the impact of alien invasive species on ecosystems, highlighting the need to reconsider our judgment towards them. The podcast explores efforts to protect red squirrels, combat earthworm invasions in forests, and preserve biodiversity on St Kilda Island. Conservationists share their experiences in managing invasive species, raising ethical questions on intervention and species adaptation in ecosystems.

Can wood replace concrete and steel in construction? Experts discuss the benefits of Cross-Laminated Timber and its potential for tall buildings. Debate on the environmental impact of using wood as a building material and the importance of sustainable forestry practices. Exploring biodiversity, Aboriginal land management, and the charismatic megafauna vs. invasive species debate.

Physicist Helen Czerski and guests explore the impact of waste on the environment. They discuss the potential to reduce greenhouse gas emissions by utilizing all resources, address the fashion industry's waste problem, and the challenge of tackling global waste management. They highlight the importance of innovative solutions and responsible consumption to combat the waste crisis.

Physicist Helen Czerski and journalist Tom Heap discuss rewilding efforts and balancing human needs with nature's preservation. They explore bison reintroduction impacts, agricultural conservation in North Norfolk coast, and the harmonious relationship between humans and the environment.