The Climate Question

Abi Daré, a Nigerian author celebrated for her novel, And So I Roar, and Madeleine Bunting, chair of the Climate Fiction Prize judges, dive into the world of climate literature. They discuss how fiction can combat climate fatigue and engage audiences through storytelling. Daré shares her journey of creating relatable characters amidst climate challenges, particularly highlighting the experiences of women and girls. The duo also emphasizes the power of humor in making heavy themes approachable, while showcasing the emotional depth necessary for climate narratives.

Adil Najam, President of WWF International and a climate expert, joins Christiana Zenner, a theology and ethics professor, to discuss the future of climate action under Pope Leo. They explore Pope Francis's lasting environmental legacy and how his teachings could influence his successor. The conversation highlights the moral responsibilities tied to climate stewardship and the role of the papacy in global climate activism, especially with an important COP meeting approaching. Can the new pope rise to the climate challenge in a world facing increasing environmental crises?

Justin Rowlatt, the BBC's climate editor, shares insights on the drastic climate policy shifts under President Trump’s administration. He discusses the revitalization of the coal industry and the funding cuts for clean energy projects. Rowlatt also highlights the emotional toll on climate scientists due to job losses and research cuts. The conversation covers the implications for international climate diplomacy and the urgency for global cooperation as emission targets are missed, stressing the long-term effects of neglecting climate research and green technologies.

Hydroelectricity holds the title of the largest source of renewable energy, but its benefits come with serious trade-offs. In Thailand, local voices reveal the dual impact of dam projects: economic growth versus community displacement. The Pumipon Dam is a case study in powerful energy generation, yet its social and environmental costs raise questions. Indigenous communities fight for water access while grappling with climate change’s impact on agriculture. The push for solar power further complicates Thailand's energy future amid ongoing debates about development and tradition.

A growing body of scientific evidence from across the globe suggests that a love of nature could inspire us to be more sustainable – something scientists say is more necessary than ever given the climate crisis. The more we connect with nature, the more likely it is that we're willing to protect it. It’s never too late to build that bond, but studies show that outdoor adventures as children make us more likely to be eco-heroes later on. Getting outside isn't just a win for the planet. Science has shown that increased time in nature yields a plethora of positive impacts, ranging from reduced crime rates and enhanced family bonding to improved physical health, peace of mind, child development, and overall well-being. The Climate Question celebrates Earth Day by speaking to children at a wildlife club in Kenya, a virtual reality film director in South Africa whose ambition is to make up-close encounters with animals accessible for everyone, and a leading nature connection expert in Canada. Guests: Ulrico Grech-Cumbo, CEO Habitat XR in South Africa John Zelenski, Professor of Psychology at Carleton University in Canada Gabriel Ngale, Nairobi Region Conservation Education Head, Wildlife Clubs of Kenya Production team: Presenter: Graihagh Jackson Reporter in Kenya: Michael Kaloki Production Co-ordinator: Brenda Brown Producer: Diane Richardson Sound mix: Tom Brignell Editor: Sophie EastaughIf you have a question, email us at theclimatequestion@bbc.com or leave a WhatsApp message at + 44 8000 321 721

As the UN's shipping body, the International Maritime Organization, meets to decide on a pivotal levy that will tax ships for using polluting fuels, host Graihagh Jackson and BBC Climate Reporter Esme Stallard discuss whether this will be enough to cut the industry's significant carbon emissions. From the Port of Rotterdam, we find out how the industry is already trying to reduce its carbon footprint. And are alternative shipping fuels really as green as it's claimed. We dive into the issue, along with more of April's climate news. The BBC’s Climate Editor Justin Rowlatt speaks to one of COP30’s top officials, a new study on carbon-gobbling forests in China and the latest on India’s heatwave. Presenters: Graihagh Jackson and Esme Stallard Producer: Beth Timmins Editor: Sophie Eastaugh Sound mixing: Tom Brignell Production Coordinator: Brenda Brown

Susan Chomber, Director of Vital Landscapes at the World Resources Institute and mother of two teenagers, shares her insights on motherhood in a climate-changed world. The discussion highlights how climate awareness influences parenting choices, with powerful stories from mothers across India, Kenya, and the UK. Susan addresses the emotional toll and ethical dilemmas faced while raising children today. The guests delve into the importance of discussing climate with kids, reflecting on how cultural and socioeconomic factors shape their experiences as mothers navigating this challenging landscape.

Graihagh Jackson and guests tackle more of your intriguing questions: Why do we use big wind turbines instead of small ones? Can petrol and diesel vehicles be converted to EVs? And can floodwater be captured and stored? In the debate are Justin Rowlatt, BBC climate editor; Akshat Rathi, senior climate reporter for Bloomberg News and host of Bloomberg's Zero podcast; and Caroline Steel, presenter of BBC Crowdscience, If you have a question, email us at theclimatequestion@bbc.com or leave a WhatsApp message at + 44 8000 321 721Presenter: Graihagh Jackson Producer: Diane Richardson Production Coordinator: Brenda Brown Sound Mix: Dave O'Neill and Tom Brignell Editor: Simon Watts

Bangkok is a mega city of more than 10 million people, the economic powerhouse of Southeast Asia and one of the world’s most visited cities. Billions of dollars worth of new luxury real estate is planned as huge skyscrapers pierce the sky and become back drops to some of our biggest film and TV series. But there’s a problem, Bangkok is sinking; in fact, it’s one of the fastest sinking cities in the world.To make matters worse, climate change is affecting both sides of the city: sea levels are rising in the Bay of Bangkok, and water levels are increasing in the mighty Chao Praya river.Jordan Dunbar is in the Thai capital to find out: How do you stop a mega city sinking? Reporter: Jordan Dunbar Producers: Ellie House and Maew Wilawan Watcharasakwej Production Coordinator: Brenda Brown Sound Mix: Tom Brignell Editor: Simon WattsIf you have a question, email us at the climatequestion@bbc.com or leave a WhatsApp message at +44 8000 321 721

Experts say we need to be 40 per cent more energy efficient to meet our climate goals. Is that doable? And might it save us money too?It's a solution that's been called the main route to net zero: energy efficiency - or using less energy to get the same or better results. But there’s an issue – it's got an image problem as many people think it’s boring. And it is hard to get excited about the idea of better lightbulbs!But energy efficiency could save us money on our bills too - especially in a warming world, where many countries will need air conditioning just to function. So does this crucial area in the fight against climate change need a rebrand. And could it even become sexy?In a programme first broadcast in 2024, Presenter Jordan Dunbar talks to: Dr Rose Mutiso - Research Director Energy for Growth Hub Prima Madan – Director, Cooling & Energy Efficiency, International Natural Resources Defence Council, India Kofi Agyarko – Director of Renewable Energy and Energy Efficiency, Ghana Energy Commission Thomas Naadi – BBC Correspondent, GhanaProduction Team: Ben Cooper, Octavia Woodward, Brenda Brown, Simon Watts Sound Design: Tom Brignellemail: theclimatequestion@bbc.comNOTE: The speech made by President Jimmy Carter mentioned in the programme, was made in 1977 not 1974, as stated.