Rethink

The Night Times Industries Association says one in four venues have shut down since 2020, and the sector will face an irreversible decline unless the government provides urgent support.The industry was one of the worst hit during the pandemic, and it's asking for cuts to National Insurance, a permanent cut in VAT and a reform of business rates to help it keep afloat. The NTIA claims the night time economy contributes more than £153 billion to the UK economy and supports over 2 million jobs. Culturally, the sector punches above its weight. The nightclub boom in the last 50 years gave us disco, acid house, drum and bass and grime, as well as many other sub-genres of music. But nightclubs are expensive and consumers are finding their thrills elsewhere; drink is cheaper from supermarkets, and why search for someone you fancy on the dancefloor when you can use a dating app?And as nightclubs struggle, so do small music venues, where artists like Ed Sheeran, Dua Lipa, Coldplay, Arctic Monkeys Blur and Oasis started out, as well as many others. People are willing to pay hundreds of pounds to see those same artists in giant venues like Co-op Live in Manchester or at Wembley Stadium, so what can be done to make sure the next wave of new artists have somewhere to play? Should the government intervene? Should big venues subsidise smaller ones, or is it up to fans to throw them a lifeline? Or has nightlife in its current form - much like variety music halls - taken its last curtain call? Presenter: Ben Ansell Producer: Tom Gillett Editor: Lisa Baxter Contributors:Michael Kill - CEO, Night Time Industries Association Fat Tony - DJ Steve Lamacq - BBC 6 Music DJ and Patron of the Music Venues Trust Richard Simm - Co-owner, The Forum Tunbridge Wells Jane Darougar - Psychotherapist and counselor at the Central St Martins University, London

Dr. Patricia Andrews-Ferron is a social psychologist whose research on implicit game theories sheds light on our zero-sum mindset. In this insightful discussion, she explains how this way of thinking inhibits cooperation and fuels mistrust. Dr. Andrews-Ferron connects zero-sum beliefs to societal issues like political disillusionment and mental health challenges, highlighting how these mindsets create conflict. She also explores generational shifts in zero-sum attitudes, revealing economic conditions that exacerbate these beliefs and the urgent need for fostering mutuality and social cohesion.

Aviation is far more difficult to decarbonise than other sectors of the economy, because kerosene is the perfect fuel for planes. It produces enough power to enable planes to fly, yet it is light enough for them to get off the ground and cross the world. Alternatives are thin on the ground; batteries are too heavy, clean hydrogen power is in its infancy, while Sustainable Aviation Fuel - or SAF - is expensive and in short supply. Although the Government has a "SAF-mandate", only 22% of all jet fuel supplied by 2040 will have to be sustainable. New airliners are more fuel-efficient than ever before, and both routes and air-traffic control are being optimised. But if growth outpaces efficiencies, greenhouse gas emissions will continue to rise. And passenger demand is back at pre-pandemic levels. In 2024 the UK was the third largest market in the world for flights. In the absence of any immediate solution, should we fly less, if at all? How realistic and affordable are slower alternatives like the train? Could passengers be penalised for taking more than one return flight a year? And should the Government rather than individuals be taking responsibility for change? Presenter: Ben Ansell Producer: Ravi Naik Editor: Lisa BaxterContributors: Alice Larkin, Professor of Climate Science and Energy Policy in the School of Engineering at the University of Manchester. Dr Roger Tyers, UK Aviation specialist at Transport & Environment Yannick van den Berg, postdoctoral researcher at the University of Amsterdam Law School Tom Nevitt, project manager of Climate Perks Duncan McCourt, Chief Executive, Sustainable AviationRethink is a BBC co-production with the Open University

David Lee, a Professor of Atmospheric Science and Director at Manchester Metropolitan University, dives into aviation's reliance on fossil fuels and its environmental impact. He discusses how jet emissions contribute significantly to global warming, examining alternatives like hydrogen fuel. The impact of contrails on climate change is explored, alongside advancements in sustainable aviation fuel. Lee emphasizes the urgency for the aviation industry to innovate and adapt to meet net zero goals by 2050 while addressing consumer habits for a greener future.

The podcast dives into the controversial and multifaceted definition of terrorism, scrutinizing its historical context and media application. It contrasts the UK's broader legal definition with the US approach, revealing how these differences shape public perception. Insights on intelligence decision-making highlight the complexities of policing prescribed groups and their demonstrations. The discussion also touches on the moral dilemmas surrounding state-sponsored violence, particularly drone strikes, and emphasizes the political ramifications of labeling actions as terrorism.

Travel journalist Simon Calder shares his insights on the struggles facing popular holiday destinations amidst climate change and overtourism. He discusses the backlash from locals in places like Barcelona and Majorca, as they fight against tourism's impact on their economies and housing markets. Simon also tackles the idea of swapping traditional summer trips for cooler European locales, while exploring how extreme weather is forcing a re-evaluation of holiday norms. Are extended summer breaks really beneficial, or is it time for a change?

Yeling Tan, a Professor of Public Policy at Oxford, discusses the shifting dynamics between the UK and China amid global trade tensions. She highlights how the UK must navigate potential opportunities for collaboration, particularly in climate initiatives and electric vehicles. Tan addresses security concerns and the misconceptions surrounding China's military threat, urging for a nuanced understanding of the economic relationships at play. The conversation also touches on the importance of revising trade policies while managing national security and economic interests.

Margaret Heffernan, a Professor of Practice in Management and former CEO, discusses the chronic productivity issues plaguing the UK. She highlights that despite longer office hours, the UK's productivity lags behind countries like France and Germany. Heffernan explores the detrimental effects of negative management practices on employee potential and advocates for a culture that prioritizes creativity and engagement. The conversation also touches on the government's crucial role in fostering productivity through education and infrastructure reform.

Gus O’Donnell, a former Cabinet Secretary for the UK, brings deep insights into the evolving landscape of civil service. He tackles growing inefficiencies and public dissatisfaction while discussing the necessity for reform and agility within bureaucracies. O'Donnell emphasizes the importance of embracing failure for innovation, reflecting on the successful COVID vaccine rollout. He also explores the transformative potential of AI in government processes and advocates for a citizen-focused approach to modernize public service and restore trust.

Richard Hyde, founder of Thinkhouse.org and chair of Solihull Community Housing, discusses the UK's pressing housing crisis. He highlights the stark contrast between social housing and so-called 'affordable homes.' Hyde emphasizes the urgent need for more social housing, as only 10,000 units are built annually versus the required 90,000. The conversation explores innovative approaches like modular construction and successful models from Finland, aiming to inspire solutions that tackle the housing shortage and support the millions waiting for homes.