

BBC Inside Science
BBC Radio 4
A weekly programme that illuminates the mysteries and challenges the controversies behind the science that's changing our world.
Episodes
Mentioned books

4 snips
Oct 19, 2023 • 35min
Why is Prime Minister Rishi Sunak rowing back on climate pledges?
UK Prime Minister Rishi Sunak faces criticism for rowing back on climate pledges. Archaeologists uncover expertly manufactured wooden structures that are half a million years old. A new book explores the significance of dust in our modern world. The podcast also delves into the need for regulation in the carbon market industry and the impact of human activities on coastal ecosystems.

Oct 12, 2023 • 31min
The halfway point for sustainable development
The halfway point for sustainable development is discussed with Saleemul Huq and Olive Heffernan. They highlight the challenges of achieving sustainable development goals amidst COVID-19 and the Ukraine-Russia war. The importance of protecting the high seas while achieving sustainable development is emphasized. Taking action and global collaboration are emphasized for sustainable development goals and climate change. The ethical implications of cloning and the controversies surrounding the creation of Dolly the Sheep are also discussed.

Oct 5, 2023 • 28min
What’s the cost of invasive species?
Helen Roy, one of the chairs of a report on invasive species, reveals the shocking extent of the damage caused by more than 37,000 alien species introduced by humans. Linda Partridge from the Royal Society discusses the UK's rejoining of the EU's research funding program. Mahesh Anand explains India's space ambitions. Helen Roberts explores how cognitive biases affect our responses to weather warnings.

Sep 28, 2023 • 28min
How will climate change affect where we can live?
Diwigdi Valiente, a member of the Guna Yala people, shares how climate change is forcing communities to evacuate in Panama. The podcast discusses the impact of rising sea levels on British coastal communities, the significance of forests for the Gunna people, and the challenges faced by insurance companies in providing coverage for high-risk areas. The importance of proactive planning and multinational cooperation in tackling climate change is highlighted.

Sep 21, 2023 • 36min
What makes a healthy river?
Discover the complexities of river health and the impacts of pollution in UK rivers. Topics include the importance of mud, challenges facing rivers, consequences of improper plumbing, addressing water pollution, and the lack of designated bathing waters in Welsh rivers.

4 snips
Sep 14, 2023 • 28min
Why do we want to go back to the Moon?
Discover the mini space race to the Moon's South Pole, the search for water with implications for space exploration, the release of water voles in the Lake District, the challenges of distinguishing real and deepfake voices, and the fascinating ways animals bend time.

Sep 7, 2023 • 28min
Time is still ticking for the Amazon
Brazilian scientist Joice Ferreira discusses the importance of the Amazon rainforest. British Sign Language is incorporating scientific concepts. Inhalers emit greenhouse gases. Paleaoanthropologist Lee Berger's book explores the ancient human-like creature Homo naledi.

Aug 31, 2023 • 28min
Reality check: carbon capture and storage
Explore the government's decision on drilling in the North Sea and its impact on carbon emissions. Hear about the fascinating behavior of whales and dolphins interacting with boats. Discover efforts to protect endangered animals and prevent dangerous interactions. Discuss the mysterious deaths of Gillamots and the spread of avian flu. Learn how to propagate plants through cuttings using basil as an example.

Aug 24, 2023 • 34min
Battles with flames
This podcast discusses the increasing frequency and severity of wildfires, the potential collapse of the Gulf Stream, the impact of tyre pollution on health and wildlife, and a cyclist's experiment with glucose monitors while cycling across the country.

Aug 17, 2023 • 33min
The wide-ranging effects of climate change
Topics discussed in this podcast include the impact of soaring temperatures on the range of foods in supermarkets, how the jet stream affects extreme weather patterns, the wide-ranging effects of record temperatures in China, the potential for new habitats for wildlife due to changing heat patterns, the use of weather balloons in storm forecasting, and the consequences of climate change on food security and gardens.