State of the Earth

Graduate School of Environment and Sustainability
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Welcome to State of the Earth, the podcast from the Graduate School of Environment and Sustainability at the University of Exeter, Cornwall. Where we explore the issues shaping our planet’s future and take a look at the ways in which we can make a positive difference – through advances in technology and engineering, conservation science, health and social policy, business management, ecosystem ecology, and more. Each episode features thought-provoking interviews with experts from our community at the Graduate School of Environment and Sustainability.

  1. Critical minerals and Cornwall: Exploring the future of responsible mining

    May 18

    Critical minerals and Cornwall: Exploring the future of responsible mining

    Mining is essential to the technologies powering the transition to net zero, from electric vehicles and wind turbines to batteries and renewable energy infrastructure. But as demand for critical minerals accelerates, how can mining become more responsible, circular, and sustainable? In this episode, Sophie Crossley speaks with Professor Frances Wall, Professor of Applied Mineralogy at the Camborne School of Mines and one of the world’s leading experts on critical minerals and sustainable resource development. Recently awarded an OBE for services to geoscience and sustainable resource development, Frances shares insights into the future of mining, the growing importance of critical minerals, and Cornwall’s role in the global energy transition. In this episode, we discuss: Why critical minerals are essential for achieving net zeroWhat “responsible mining” really means in practiceThe role of circular economy systems in reducing waste and improving sustainabilityWhy mineral processing is one of the biggest challenges facing the industryCornwall’s mining heritage, and why the region is back in the spotlightHow the industry can rebuild public trust and operate more responsiblyWhat developments in legislation, supply chains, and technology may shape mining in 2026

    34 min
  2. Ice Sheets and the Sea Floor: Marine Geology of our Changing Planet with Prof James Scourse

    Mar 2

    Ice Sheets and the Sea Floor: Marine Geology of our Changing Planet with Prof James Scourse

    In this podcast, host Sofia Salas Lopez speaks with Prof. James Scourse, a marine geologist and the Head of the Department of Earth and Environmental Sciences at the University of Exeter. In this conversation, we explore James’s career in marine geology, his research on Quaternary environments and climate change, and how geological records help us better understand past and future environmental change. After completing his undergraduate degree at the University of Oxford, he went on to earn a PhD from the University of Cambridge. His doctoral research focused on the Quaternary stratigraphy and palaeoenvironments of the Celtic Sea, Isles of Scilly, and West Cornwall. Following his PhD, James was elected to a Research Fellowship at the University of Cambridge. Shortly after, he was appointed to a Lectureship at Bangor University in the School of Ocean Sciences in 1985 and was awarded a Personal Chair in 2005. In February 2017, he moved his research group to the Penryn Campus at the University of Exeter. James has held numerous leadership roles within the academic community. He served as President of the Quaternary Research Association (2008–2011) and as Chair of the NERC Radiocarbon Facility Steering Committee (2007–2011). He was Editor of the Journal of Quaternary Science (2000–2004) and was awarded a Royal Society–Leverhulme Trust Senior Research Fellowship in 2008–2009. He was elected a Fellow of the Learned Society of Wales in 2014, directed the Climate Change Consortium of Wales from 2011 to 2016, and received a Doctor of Science (ScD) degree from the University of Cambridge in 2023. Highlights: Introduction to Prof. Scourse and his journey into marine geologyThe importance of marine geologyExperiences conducting field work in the AntarcticThe work of ScleroMarine environmental dating applicationsClimate change, tipping points and glaciersDeep-sea mining PolicyThe future of his workLinks to further explore his work: University of Exeter profile:  https://experts.exeter.ac.uk/26104-james-scourse Sclero: https://sclerogroupexeter.co.uk/

    56 min
  3. Sustainable tourism, unpacked: Governance, ethics, and hidden costs with Jose Melenez Roman

    Feb 16

    Sustainable tourism, unpacked: Governance, ethics, and hidden costs with Jose Melenez Roman

    Tourism connects people, cultures, and economies, but it also places growing pressure on communities and environments around the world. So what does sustainable tourism really mean in practice, and how can such a complex global industry become more equitable and resilient? In this episode, Sophie Crossley speaks with Jose Melenez Roman, Lecturer in Sustainable Tourism at the University of Exeter. With more than 14 years of experience working across public and private sector tourism projects worldwide, Jose explores how collaboration, governance, and innovation can help tackle some of tourism’s toughest sustainability challenges. In this episode, we discuss: What “sustainable tourism” really means beyond the buzzwordThe hidden social and environmental costs of tourismHow participatory governance helps destinations design better solutionsGreenwashing in tourism and how organisations can build credibilityWhether regulation or collaboration will drive change in the years aheadAdvice for students and professionals entering the sustainable tourism field

    31 min
  4. Primates and the Future of Conservation: In conversation with Dr Kimberley Hockings

    12/12/2025

    Primates and the Future of Conservation: In conversation with Dr Kimberley Hockings

    In this podcast, Host Sofia Salas Lopez speaks with Dr Kimberley Hockings, Associate Professor in Conservation Science at the University of Exeter. She is an active member of many conservation organisations, such as the Great Ape Section of the IUCN/SSC Primate Specialist Group, and as the co-Director of the Cantanhez Chimpanzee Project Dr Kimberley is a conservation biologist, with her work mainly focused on studying and facilitating human-wildlife interactions, especially with great apes. Dr Kimberley has extensive experience with fieldwork across West Africa, working on conservation projects and policy. In this conversation, we will learn more about the biggest issues facing primates and how different forms of conservation can shape the future of wildlife by creating a symbiosis between people and nature.  Highlights: Introduction to Dr Hockings and her journey into conservation  The importance of studying primates Threats to primates (Human-wildlife interactions, disease, land loss…) The role of community work in conservation AI and technology in conservation Hopes for the future  Links to further explore her work: https://experts.exeter.ac.uk/26467-kimberley-hockings/about

    29 min
  5. Rethinking nature: How inclusive design can transform our connection to the world

    11/25/2025

    Rethinking nature: How inclusive design can transform our connection to the world

    In this episode, Sophie is joined by Dr Sarah Bell, Senior Lecturer in Health Geography at the European Centre for Environment and Human Health. Sarah is a health and disability geographer whose research explores how wellbeing, social inequality, and disability intersect with our changing environments, from parks, gardens, and coastlines to the weather, seasons, and climate change. Our conversation covers how our environments shape who we are and how we live — and what it really means to design a fairer, healthier world for everyone. Highlights: How disability, wellbeing, and environment intersect across the life courseLessons from the Sensing Nature project and multisensory access to the outdoorsThe balance between research, real-world impact, and policy changeShort-termism vs long-term investment in health and nature initiativesStaying motivated in the face of climate challenges and systemic barriersShownotes: Sensing Nature program: https://sensing-nature.com

    25 min
  6. Navigating Climate Change: A Deep Dive into Glacial Science with Professor Martin Siegert

    07/15/2025

    Navigating Climate Change: A Deep Dive into Glacial Science with Professor Martin Siegert

    In this episode, Sophie is joined by Professor Martin Siegert, Vice President and Deputy Vice-Chancellor at the University of Exeter Cornwall Campus. Martin is a leading expert in polar science, glaciology, and climate science. With over 30 years of experience, Professor Siegert shares his inspiring, albeit unconventional, journey into academia, demonstrating that a career in science is “for everybody,” no matter your background!      The conversation dives into the critical issue of global sea level rise and the dramatic changes occurring in the polar regions, particularly Antarctica, one of the fastest warming places on Earth. Professor Siegert explains how melting polar ice sheets are now controlling global sea levels, potentially leading to significant rises measured in metres rather than centimetres. He highlights two key effects: the gravitational impact that raises sea levels in mid-latitudes like the UK, and the albedo effect, where melting ice causes polar regions to absorb heat instead of reflecting it, creating a planetary problem.     Listeners will discover Professor Siegert's groundbreaking research using radio-echo sounding to map hidden subglacial environments and hundreds of lakes, which is essential for developing accurate ice sheet models to predict future sea level rise. With current CO2 levels far exceeding natural norms, he emphasises that significant sea level rise is inevitable.     Professor Siegert outlines a feasible decarbonised pathway as the only viable solution, firmly rejecting impractical geoengineering strategies. He concludes with a powerful call to action for individuals, businesses, and institutions, leaving listeners inspired to engage in the fight against climate change. This insightful and optimistic conversation highlights the interconnectedness of human activities and the Earth's polar regions, underscoring the urgent need for collective action.

    54 min
  7. The Future of Biodiversity Monitoring: Mapping Biodiversity with Remote Sensing

    05/29/2025

    The Future of Biodiversity Monitoring: Mapping Biodiversity with Remote Sensing

    In this episode of the State of the Earth Podcast, Mark is joined by Bri Pickstone, a PhD researcher at the Environmental Intelligence Centre for Doctoral Training. Together, they explore how remote sensing and machine learning are transforming biodiversity monitoring and shaping the future of Biodiversity Net Gain. Bri shares how her research helps us better understand ecosystems from space and how these insights can guide smarter, more sustainable land management. From policy to practice, this conversation sheds light on the tools and data driving nature recovery in the UK and beyond. Whether you’re curious about tech’s role in conservation or want to understand how big data can support biodiversity, this episode offers a fresh perspective on the intersection of nature and innovation.

    25 min
  8. From Everyday Actions to Global Impact: Rethinking Our Role in Climate Change with Professor Catherine Leyshon

    03/12/2025

    From Everyday Actions to Global Impact: Rethinking Our Role in Climate Change with Professor Catherine Leyshon

    In this episode of the State of the Earth Podcast, Mark is joined by Catherine Leyshon, a Professor of Human Geography at the University of Exeter, Cornwall. They discuss how to unravel the hidden systems behind our daily routines to make a difference on the climate change impact and how the system itself can be redesigned. Mark and Catherine explore how simple activities like showering, shopping and commuting aren’t just routine but could be powerful practices that shape our planet’s future. Using Elizabeth Shove’s Theory of Enabled Practices helps us discover how shifting these ingrained behaviours can ignite a local revolution for sustainability and learn why every small choice you make matters in the fight against climate change. Whether you’re driven by a desire to make a personal change or eager to be part of a broader movement, this conversation will inspire you to rethink, act, and transform your everyday life for a healthier, greener tomorrow.

    33 min
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About

Welcome to State of the Earth, the podcast from the Graduate School of Environment and Sustainability at the University of Exeter, Cornwall. Where we explore the issues shaping our planet’s future and take a look at the ways in which we can make a positive difference – through advances in technology and engineering, conservation science, health and social policy, business management, ecosystem ecology, and more. Each episode features thought-provoking interviews with experts from our community at the Graduate School of Environment and Sustainability.

Information

  • Creator
    Graduate School of Environment and Sustainability
  • Years Active
    2024 - 2026
  • Episodes
    14
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © Graduate School of Environment and Sustainability
  • Show Website
    State of the Earth