The Climate Question

Esme Stallard, a BBC Climate Reporter, reveals alarming insights from the latest UN report on sea level rise, emphasizing the impact on vulnerable Pacific islands. Will Grant shares a lively account of Mexico's new president, Claudia Sheinbaum, an environmental scientist, and her ambitious sustainability plans. Meanwhile, the podcast dives into the chocolate crisis in Ivory Coast, where climate change has driven cocoa prices soaring. The discussion highlights the challenges faced by farmers and the urgent need for supportive measures.

Justin Rowlatt, BBC Climate Editor, shares his insights from a visit to Somalia, where climate change intertwines with longstanding conflict. He highlights how extreme weather challenges both farmers and herders, intensifying resource struggles. The harrowing tales of families, like Salma Abdul-Kadhir seeking medical help, showcase the urgent humanitarian crises exacerbated by climate shifts. Amidst adversity, Rowlatt paints a picture of resilience, featuring grassroots renewable initiatives and the innovative spirit of communities striving for a sustainable future.

Climate change is reshaping the wine industry worldwide, creating new hotspots like the Crouch Valley in England while traditional regions face crises. The podcast explores the effects of rising temperatures on grape ripening and wine flavor, and how winemakers are adapting. With insights from innovative producers in Essex and a historic family winery in Spain, listeners learn about sustainable practices, crop resilience, and even the revival of lost grape varieties, highlighting both challenges and hopeful strategies in the evolving world of wine.

Gabrielle Szabo, an advocate with UNICEF and Save the Children, sheds light on the alarming rise of child marriage linked to climate change. She discusses how extreme weather in Bangladesh forces families to marry off their daughters early as a survival strategy. Personal stories reveal the impact on young girls' dreams and rights, while community hubs are highlighted as vital support systems. The discussion emphasizes the need for education and empowerment to combat this issue, presenting a path toward resilience in vulnerable communities.

Engineers worldwide are embracing nature-based solutions to combat urban flooding caused by climate change. The concept of 'sponge cities' is revolutionizing urban design, transforming unyielding concrete into green, absorbent landscapes. From wetlands to parks, these innovations enhance biodiversity and support community well-being. Exciting projects in China and Portland showcase the positive impact of restoring natural elements. The practice of 'depaving' further underscores grassroots efforts to reclaim urban spaces, making them resilient against flooding.

Join BBC Climate Editor Justin Rowlatt, Prof Tamsin Edwards from King's College London, and Bloomberg's Dr. Akshat Rathi as they tackle listener questions on geo-engineering and climate solutions. They discuss innovative methods for cooling homes, including the quirky idea of using yogurt as a reflective window coating. The trio also dives into the roles of sharks in carbon storage and the impacts of shipping on climate change, shedding light on the intersection of nature and technology in our fight against global warming.

Afghanistan grapples with severe climate change impacts, including worsening floods and droughts, amid ongoing conflict. With aid dwindling post-Taliban takeover, locals are innovating solutions like building life-saving dams. The diaspora plays a crucial role in funding these efforts, while experts discuss the challenges of international support without legitimizing the Taliban. Stories of resilience highlight how individuals adapt to these crises, stressing the urgent need for global action to address Afghanistan's unique climate struggles.

Jordan Dunbar is a renewable energy expert focusing on tidal power, while Myra Anubi champions grassroots initiatives against climate change. They explore innovative solutions like tidal power in Northern Ireland and floating solar panels in Albania. The discussion highlights impressive community efforts to protect forests in Borneo and Colombia. Additionally, they touch on the environmental impact of music festivals and intriguing concepts like virtual concerts to lower carbon footprints. Their insights showcase both large and small-scale actions in climate advocacy.

Kim Stanley Robinson, an acclaimed US sci-fi author and climate activist, dives into how storytelling can ignite action against climate change. He discusses the significance of speculative narratives in shaping environmental discourse and the urgent need for innovative solutions. With a focus on his novel 'Ministry for the Future,' Robinson emphasizes the balance between hope and skepticism in climate action. He also highlights the essential role of indigenous perspectives in environmental stewardship, prompting a reflection on our ethical responsibilities.

Some of the world's biggest carbon emitters - including the EU, India and Indonesia - have just had elections. Will the results change their climate policies?Graihagh Jackson and Jordan Dunbar are joined by Anna Holligan, BBC correspondent in the Netherlands; Carl Nasman, BBC climate journalist based in Washington; and BBC climate reporter Esme Stallard.Producers: Ben Cooper and Graihagh Jackson Production Coordinator: Brenda Brown Editor: Simon Watts Sound mix: Tom Brignell