Science Weekly

Guardian biodiversity reporter Phoebe Weston discusses the decline of the marsh tit population with ecologist Richard Broughton in Cambridgeshire, highlighting the importance of bioacoustics. Bernie Krause advocates listening to nature to understand our impact on the planet, showcasing the disappearing soundscape of a park near San Francisco.

European court rules in favor of senior Swiss women challenging inadequate climate policies, setting precedent for future climate activism. Discussion on implications of court verdicts on climate litigation, highlighting hope and uncertainty among plaintiffs. Exploring the violation of fundamental rights in climate policy and its global implications. Introduction to 'Invertebrate of the Year' competition and podcast recommendations featuring industry leaders.

Remembering physicist Peter Higgs, the Nobel prize-winning British physicist known for the Higgs boson particle. The podcast reflects on Higgs's life and legacy, discusses the significance of the Higgs boson discovery, and explores his humble genius and contributions to particle physics.

Solar scientist Huw Morgan and biologist Adam Hartstone-Rose discuss studying solar mysteries and animal behaviors during a total eclipse. Topics include observing the sun's corona, unique animal reactions, and insights gained from studying unusual behaviors like anxious giraffes and active tortoises.

Psychologist Chris French discusses the psychology behind paranormal beliefs and conspiracy theories, exploring cognitive biases and evolutionary factors influencing our attraction to supernatural phenomena. The conversation delves into the challenges of changing minds, navigating skepticism, and engaging with believers in debates.

Science correspondent Linda Geddes discusses the advantages and downsides of hypermobility, including its link to pain, anxiety, and long Covid. The podcast explores the physical and mental health implications of hypermobility, genetic aspects, and its varying effects on individuals. It also delves into the relationships between hypermobility syndrome, fatigue, mood disorders, and neurodiversity conditions like autism and ADHD, as well as the correlation between hypermobility and persistent COVID symptoms.

Lawrence Young, Professor of molecular oncology, discusses the 60th anniversary of Epstein-Barr virus discovery linking it to cancer and MS. They explore the virus's role in 1% of cancers, its connection to MS, and challenges in vaccine development.

Solar scientist Dr. Lisa Upton discusses the impact of solar storms on Earth, including power grid outages and disruptions to infrastructure. She explores the importance of predicting severe solar storms and developing mitigation strategies to safeguard technology-dependent society.

Explore the baffling Havana syndrome affecting US diplomats with symptoms like dizziness, nausea, and severe headaches. Unraveling the mystery of Havana syndrome and its impact on brain function. Delve into theories surrounding affected individuals, treatability of functional neurological disorders, and the US government's response. Investigate the enigmatic Havana syndrome with theories of a secret weapon or psychogenic illness, lacking a definitive answer.

Should nature have legal rights? The podcast explores the movement advocating for ecosystems to be granted legal protections, the UK government's opposition to it, and innovative ways to give rights to nature. It delves into the Ecuadorian forest's legal recognition, global environmental advocacy, and the importance of balancing our relationship with the environment.