25 episodes
We The Children - Kids Talk Climate Solutions We The Children - Kids Talk Climate Solutions
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- Kids & Family
Hi! My name’s Zachary Fox-Devol. You can just call me Zach. I might only be 12 years old, but I already have a lot of questions about the environment, how climate change will impact my generation and, most importantly, what we can do to help.
That’s why I started this podcast. We the Children is a place for kids like me to learn more about the climate crisis, and the environment, but have some fun along the way, too. On the show, we’ll explore things like climate change, climate action, severe weather and sustainable living, through conversations with experts, educators, and climate activists. I think that kids like me (and maybe you, reading this right now) have a lot to contribute to the global conversation about our environment. It's not about having all the answers; it's about asking big, important questions to the people who are spending their careers thinking about how we can all take climate action, practice sustainability and build a healthier Earth.
Questions like:
How can students effectively get involved in finding a climate solution? What responsibility do schools and administrators have to ensure students are taught about climate change and what life on Earth will look like in the coming years? Can we prevent biodiversity loss and preserve our wetlands and water sources? Why should we care about the conservation of animals like polar bears? Why do we need to pay attention to severe weather? What is the actual impact of our recycling efforts? What is a “green economy,” and who are the innovators that might help us achieve it?
Each episode is a chance to learn together. Air pollution, biodiversity, carbon footprints–sounds like an earth science class, right? But here's the thing: it's not just about learning big words and what they mean. It's about understanding these concepts’ impact on our world. Together, we’ll navigate the tricky terrain of climate action, exploring what it means for us, for the environment, and the world.
Teachers, consider this podcast a little extra help in your mission to educate the next generation about climate change. We the Children isn't just a show; it's a tool for your climate curriculum arsenal. Climate change is a massive topic but together we'll break it down, one concept, one question at a time. Conservation, sustainability, climate solutions – we'll explore them all.
As for you, my fellow students, this podcast is not homework! This is your invitation to be part of a green movement, to become Earth's guardians. From the green wonders and majestic animals on our planet to the pressing issues of global warming, we'll navigate it all with a sense of wonder and humility. Let's make sustainability cool, like the breeze on a hot day or the gentle rain after a storm. Do you hear a guitar? I might be writing a song here, sorry…
Anyway, I think this stuff is pretty cool, and I’ve learned a lot about it, but I’m not an expert on climate change yet. I'm learning as we go. We the Children is a shared journey of discovery, where your thoughts, questions, and ideas matter just as much as mine. Sustainability, plastic pollution, weather emergencies – they're not just terms; they're pieces of a puzzle we're solving together.
Let's embrace our curiosity, ask the questions that need asking, and, together, work towards a greener, more sustainable world because we, the children, can shape a sustainable and thriving Earth for generations to come.
Please visit wethechildrenpodcast.com for more information and subscribe wherever you get your podcasts!
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Working Together: A United Approach to Climate Solutions with Tim Martin
Uncover the intricate connections between geology and climate change with geologist and astronomer Tim Martin. Tim, a seasoned instructor at Elon University and naturalist with National Geographic, shares insights from his Arctic expeditions and his extensive research into Earth's geological past.
Growing up with a passion for the outdoors and a curiosity about the natural world, Tim’s lifelong commitment to environmental education shines through as he discusses the vital role of geologists in understanding climate change. Tim's dual career as a scientist and artist enriches his approach to teaching and communicating about climate change. His work emphasizes how geological evidence from millions of years helps us comprehend and address the rapid environmental changes we face today. Tim explains the science of paleoclimatology and its importance in predicting future climate scenarios.
Tim explains the significant financial implications of ignoring climate change, emphasizing that the costs of inaction far outweigh the investments required for sustainable solutions. The episode paints a vivid picture of the economic, environmental, and social stakes involved in global climate dynamics. Tim also illustrates the critical role of interdisciplinary research and public participation in shaping our response to environmental challenges.
HighlightsThe science of paleoclimatology and its relevance to modern climate issues (00:02:13)Discussion on the rapid pace of climate change and its economic implications (00:07:01)The importance of combining various scientific disciplines to address climate challenges (00:13:11)How individuals can contribute to climate science through citizen science initiatives (00:20:28)Personal observations and their impact on understanding and combating climate change (00:24:13)Educational Wrap Up & Quiz to reinforce the episode's themes (00:29:26)
Resources MentionedNational Geographic Resolution (website link)Community Collaborative Rain, Hail, and Snow Network (CoCoRaHS) (website link)
Connect with us!Subscribe to We the Children on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, or wherever you get your podcasts and follow us on Facebook (facebook.com/wethechildrenpodcast) and Instagram (@we_the_children_podcast). Also, please visit our website (wethechildrenpodcast.com) and leave us a voice message or email if you want to stay in touch or engage with episode questions!
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Hope Rising: Youth Empowerment and Ocean Restoration with Philippe Cousteau
Join Zach and environmental advocate Philippe Cousteau in a captivating discussion on the urgent role of ocean restoration and the power of youth activism in environmental conservation. Philippe shares innovative techniques for coral restoration that have transitioned from experimental stages to significant global projects aimed at rebuilding healthy marine ecosystems. Zach and Philippe also talk about the pervasive issue of plastic pollution, discussing both its catastrophic impacts on marine and human life and the solutions that organizations like EarthEcho are spearheading to mitigate these effects.
Philippe Cousteau dives into how his family legacy continues to inspire his environmental advocacy, particularly in empowering the next generation. He highlights initiatives such as the OurEcho Challenge, which encourages youth to explore and address biodiversity concerns within their communities, fostering a proactive approach to environmental stewardship. This episode not only illuminates the environmental challenges we face but also celebrates the promising efforts led by young people worldwide, underlining the profound belief that the younger generation holds the key to sustainable solutions.
Philippe emphasize the importance of education and active participation in environmental issues. Philippe's stories and strategies offer a roadmap for listeners who are eager to make an impact, advocating for a united approach where clean air, clean water, and a healthy ocean are seen as fundamental and unifying global priorities.
Listeners are encouraged to join the ongoing conversation about ocean preservation and youth activism by following the podcast on social media platforms and participating in community-focused environmental initiatives. This episode serves as a compelling reminder that while the challenges are significant, the opportunities for making a difference are immense.
HighlightsPhilippe discusses the origins of coral restoration technology and its impact on ocean health (01:30)Discussion on the pervasive problem of plastic in our oceans and innovative responses to this global crisis (15:45)How the OurEcho Challenge is engaging young people in environmental science and stewardship (30:00)Philippe reflects on his grandfather Jacques Cousteau’s legacy and its influence on his life and work (45:20)Strategies for effective environmental communication and the critical role of education in fostering a sustainable future (58:40)
Resources Mentioned- EarthEcho International (website link)
- OurEcho Challenge (website link)
Connect with us!Subscribe to We the Children on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, or wherever you get your podcasts and follow us on Facebook (facebook.com/wethechildrenpodcast) and Instagram (@we_the_children_podcast). Also, please visit our website (wethechildrenpodcast.com) and leave us a voice message or email if you want to stay in touch or engage with episode questions!
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Beneath the Waves: The Beauty and Fragility of Marine Life with Molly Timmers
Dive into the mesmerizing world beneath the waves with Molly Timmers, a marine ecologist whose lifelong passion for the ocean has taken her on an extraordinary journey all around the globe.
Growing up with a deep appreciation for nature, Molly's fascination with the ocean led her to pursue a career dedicated to marine research and conservation. From her formative experiences as a marine debris removal technician scuba diving in the pristine waters of Hawaii to her current role as a marine ecologist for the National Geographic Society's Pristine Seas program, Molly's commitment to protecting our oceans is evident in every aspect of her work.
In this episode, Molly refelcts on the beauty and fragility of marine life. Drawing from her extensive fieldwork and research, she offers insights into the challenges facing coral reefs, the profound impacts of climate change on marine ecosystems, and the pressing need for innovative conservation strategies to safeguard our oceans for generations to come.
Listen along with your friends, parents, and teachers as Molly delves into the intricacies of marine ecology, illuminating the wonders of the underwater world while underscoring the critical importance of collective action in preserving our planet's most precious resource – the ocean.
Highlights:An underwater world (03:41)How Molly’s work with coral reefs began (05:50)What are coral reefs exactly? (07:21)Understanding organisms through eDNA (08:55)The role do coral reefs play in our global ecosystem (13:52)What happens as the ocean's temperature warms? (17:35)How no-take zones protect coral reefs (23:37)Wrap Up & Quiz! (28:59)
Links:Website: Nat Geo Pristine Sea's Program
Connect with us!Subscribe to We the Children on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, or wherever you get your podcasts and follow us on Facebook (facebook.com/wethechildrenpodcast) and Instagram (@we_the_children_podcast). Also, please visit our website (wethechildrenpodcast.com) and leave us a voice message or email if you want to stay in touch or engage with episode questions!
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A Conversation with Glaciologist Dr. Heïdi Severstre (Rerun)
Today we revisit my conversation with Dr. Heïdi Severstre! Dr. Sevestre is a glaciologist. She is a top science communicator, educator and leads expeditions to cold places every year. Her studies have taken her around the world, but now she dedicates her time to science policy, outreach and research.
In this interview, Dr. Sevestre explains how glaciers melting directly affects us all in two ways. The first is that glaciers hold 70% of freshwater reservoirs, which is what we use for everyday water usage. Secondly, when glaciers melt, the sea levels around the world rise. If all the glaciers in the world were to disappear, it would increase sea levels globally by 65 meters or 280 feet. This is important because there are 70 million people living between 0 and 30 feet of elevation. When the ice melts, people will have to adapt and move somewhere else. In order to combat this, we need to burn fewer fossil fuels. The more we burn fossil fuels like coal, gas, etc., the more the planet keeps the heat in and prevents it from going back into space. Our planet keeps getting warmer and has increased by 1.1 degrees Celsius since the pre-industrial revolution. This sounds like a tiny temperature increase, but a 1 degree temperature increase will continually get worse. NASA predicts that if we don’t make changes around the world, the global temperature is on track to rise by 4.5 degrees celsius in 2100.
The key to tackling the climate crisis is to stop using fossil fuels as much as we are today. She suggests educating people on these issues and to calculate your own carbon footprint and water consumption. If everyone makes these slow solutions and shares these solutions with positivity and excitement, we can keep fighting to reduce the carbon footprint and stabilize our planet’s temperature.
Website: Dr. Heïdi Severstre
Instagram: @heidisevestre
Connect with us!
Subscribe to We the Children on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, or wherever you get your podcasts and follow us on Facebook (facebook.com/wethechildrenpodcast) and Instagram (@we_the_children_podcast). Also, please visit our website (wethechildrenpodcast.com) and leave us a voice message or email if you want to stay in touch or engage with episode questions!
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Water Wisdom: A deep dive into wildfires and water conservation with Dr. Faith Kearns
Summary:
For the most arid areas of our planet, water conservation and wildfires have always been hot topics. Climate change and a warming planet, however, have escalated this important conversation. It is now more necessary than ever to understand the impacts climate change will have on our water supply and weather, and come up with strategies to address them.
Having grown up in Arizona, one of the driest places in the United States, our guest this episode hasn't just learned about the importance of water conservation—she's lived it! Dr. Faith Kearns is a scientist and science communication practitioner who writes, works on, and talks about water, wildfire, and climate change issues in the southwestern United States. Author of the award-winning book Getting to the Heart of Science Communication, her work has been published in New Republic, On Being, Bay Nature, and more. Dr. Kearns is also co-host of the podcast "Water Talk."
In this episode, we'll learn about the interconnectedness of water conservation and wildfires, and explore the effects climate change is having on both. We'll also explore the concept of "eco emotions" and how to communicate about climate change effectively and compassionately.
Listen along with your friends, parents, and teachers as we share discussion questions and helpful definitions…there’s even a quiz at the end of the episode to practice what you learned. Now, let's all take a deep breath and plunge into the world of water conservation with Dr. Faith Kearns!
Highlights:Dr. Kearns' childhood experience with wildfire (03:00)How are water conservation, drought, and wildfires connected? (07:12)Water's importance for humans and agriculture (09:35)What is science communication? (18:21)"Eco emotions" and climate-related anxiety in young people (21:15)Creative solutions to address drought and water conservation (24:34)How can individuals promote water conservation locally? (28:48)Wrap Up & Quiz! (30:24)Links:Website: Dr. Faith Kearns
Book: Getting to the Heart of Science Communication by Faith Kearns
Book: All the Feelings Under the Sun by Leslie Davenport
Podcast: Water Talk
Connect with us!Subscribe to We the Children on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, or wherever you get your podcasts and follow us on Facebook (facebook.com/wethechildrenpodcast) and Instagram (@we_the_children_podcast). Also, please visit our website (wethechildrenpodcast.com) and leave us a voice message or email if you want to stay in touch or engage with episode questions!
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Bee Sustainable: Saving our planet’s pollinators with Melanie Kirby
Summary:Bees and other pollinators have an important role to play in our planet's ecosystems. As they travel flower to flower collecting pollen, not only are they feeding themselves, but they're feeding us as well. By helping plants reproduce, bees ensure we have an abundance of the fruits, vegetables, and nuts that fuel our food chains. But that's not all...the honey bees make serves as both a sweet treat and a medicine.
Bees take care of us, and in return we need to take care of them. Human activities and climate change are having a negative impact on bee populations globally, so our guest this episode, interdisciplinarian and beekeeper Melanie Kirby, is here to teach us all about bees and what we can do to help them thrive.
Melanie is the co-founder of Zia Queenbees farm, which specializes in breeding regionally-adaptive bees. A Fulbright-NatGeo Storytelling Fellow, and a Grist 50 Climate Fixer with a graduate degree in Entomology, she advocates for broadening the narrative of marginalized farmers and communities as a mestiza of mixed Indigenous ancestry. Melanie collaborates across cultures and landscapes promoting whole system approaches to pollinator conservation with diverse communities and is a writer, researcher, artist, and mom.
In this episode, we'll learn about different bee species and their habits, the impact of climate change on bees, and what we can do to support the health of local bee populations.
Listen along with your friends, parents, and teachers as we share discussion questions and helpful definitions…there’s even a quiz at the end of the episode to practice what you learned. So, join Zach as We the Children gets the latest buzz on bees from Melanie Kirby!
Highlights:Melanie's introduction to beekeeping (03:09)The importance of bees and pollinators in ecosystems (03:34)How Melanie connects culture and beekeeping (09:00)Bee types and traits (10:53)How health and habits (16:46)Impact of climate change on bees (23:45)How we can protect bees (26:01)Lessons we can learn from bees (31:22)Wrap Up & Quiz! (32:52)Links:Website: Zia Queenbees Farm & Field Institute
LinkedIn: Melanie Kirby
Instagram: @nectarnomad
Bee City USA
Connect with us!Subscribe to We the Children on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, or wherever you get your podcasts and follow us on Facebook (facebook.com/wethechildrenpodcast) and Instagram (@we_the_children_podcast). Also, please visit our website (wethechildrenpodcast.com) and leave us a voice message or email if you want to stay in touch or engage with episode questions!
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