BBC Inside Science

This podcast explores the dangers of forever chemicals in drinking water and the need for stricter regulation. It also delves into the illegal trade of dinosaur bones and the revelation that the Moon is older than previously thought. Additionally, it discusses the biological secrets of animals that age differently and offers insights into longevity in the animal kingdom.

The podcast discusses the dangers of white phosphorus, including its violation of international law if used in civilian areas. It also explores the use of AI and scanning techniques to decipher ancient papyrus scrolls, the fight for women in science, and the re-establishment of beavers in the UK and their impact on wetlands and farming.

Science writer Philip Ball and zoologist Professor Matthew Cobb discuss assembly theory, a framework for understanding the origins and complexity of life. They also explore the recent Osiris Rex mission to collect samples from asteroid Bennu and the importance of animal senses in understanding the world. The Perception Census project aims to document differences in human perception and consciousness.

Experts discuss the ongoing search for extraterrestrial life, including the exploration of Mars and icy moons of Jupiter and Saturn. They explore the molecules and biosignatures indicating signs of life and the significance of Ganymede's magnetic field. The podcast also dives into the methods used to find biosignatures, such as analyzing starlight spectra, and touches on music from space and microbiology experiments on the International Space Station.

Conservation research manager, Nida al-Fulaij, discusses the decline in species due to climate change and habitat loss in the UK. Discover how innovative agricultural practices can boost wildlife in the fields. Also, learn about the Royal Society Trivedi Science Book Prize entries and the recent observation of antimatter behavior in gravity at CERN. Find out the details of NASA's successful mission to retrieve samples from the asteroid Bennu.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.