The SAGES Climate Science Podcast

SAGES
The SAGES Climate Science Podcast

Join us on The SAGES Climate Science Podcast, brought to you by SAGES, the Scottish Alliance for Geoscience Environment and Society, from Scotland’s leading scientists. We delve into the latest research and pressing issues in climate science, with a special focus on Scotland’s changing environment. From flooding and urban resilience to the role of the ocean and underground energy, each episode brings together experts from diverse fields to explore the science, challenges, and innovative solutions shaping our planet’s future. Through engaging discussions, we uncover how climate change is transforming Scotland’s landscapes, from its coasts and soils to its frozen and urban environments. Learn about groundbreaking technologies, the human impacts of environmental change, and community-led efforts to build resilience. Whether it’s tackling public health challenges, advancing sustainable energy, or protecting vital ecosystems like peatlands and blue carbon reserves, our podcast offers insights and inspiration for everyone passionate about creating a sustainable future. Tune in to discover how cutting-edge science, collaboration, and action address the climate crisis, and what role you can play in shaping a better tomorrow.

Episodes

  1. JAN 21

    Blue Carbon and the Vital Role of Our Oceans in Climate Resilience

    In this episode of The SAGES Climate Science Podcast, we take a closer look at one of the most vital yet underappreciated players in the climate system: the ocean. Joining us are Dr. Philippa Rickard, an environmental scientist specialising in oceanic microscale processes, and Prof. Bill Austin, a marine geoscientist at the University of St Andrews and the Scottish Association for Marine Science, and Chair of the Scottish Blue Carbon Forum. Together, they unravel the complex relationship between the ocean and climate change.We begin by exploring the ocean’s role in regulating Earth’s climate and how Scotland has historically contributed to ocean science. Dr. Rickard dives into the carbon cycle, explaining how oceanic interactions help regulate atmospheric carbon and, ultimately, our climate. We also tackle the surprising fact that our oceans are essential for life, particularly when it comes to the oxygen we breathe.From there, we delve into blue carbon - carbon stored in coastal and marine ecosystems - and discuss the progress of blue carbon research. Prof. Austin sheds light on the UN’s Blue Carbon Programme and how Scotland is playing a leading role in global ocean conservation. How much capacity does the ocean have to continue absorbing greenhouse gases, and are we on the right path to protecting it?Lastly, the episode discusses whether our ocean protection efforts are more technology-focused or nature-based and how everyday individuals can contribute to safeguarding our seas.Join us as we uncover the hidden potential of our oceans in combating climate change and how Scotland’s blue carbon efforts are helping to secure a sustainable future.

    50 min
  2. JAN 21

    Environmental Justice: How Climate Change Impacts Our Health and Communities

    In this episode of The SAGES Climate Science Podcast, we shift focus from the physical environment to how climate change and environmental issues affect human lives, particularly in Scotland. Our guests, Dr. Jennifer Rao-Williams, a Design Fellow at the University of Dundee, and Dr. Mary Abed Al Ahad, an Associate Lecturer at the University of St Andrews, help us explore the human side of environmental crises.We begin by examining the direct and indirect impacts of climate change on people, from health to social inequality. Are there regions in Scotland where these environmental challenges are felt more acutely? And how do multiple environmental stressors, like air pollution and climate risks, overlap and exacerbate these impacts?Dr. Rao-Williams offers insights into resilience in Scottish communities, particularly how they’re responding to environmental risks and what policies are in place to address these challenges. Dr. Abed Al Ahad delves into the health impacts, focusing on how air pollution and environmental degradation affect public health and well-being, especially in vulnerable populations. We also discuss whether environmental issues impact everyone equally or whether certain groups bear a heavier burden.From local policy actions to global mitigation efforts, we explore how countries and communities are responding to these pressing issues. How resilient are we to future environmental hazards, and what steps can individuals take to protect themselves and reduce harm in their own communities?Join us for a compelling conversation on environmental justice, health, and the path toward building more resilient and equitable communities in the face of climate change.

    48 min
  3. JAN 21

    Soil and Peat: The hidden key to climate resilience

    In this episode of The SAGES Climate Science Podcast, we dig deep into Scotland’s soils and peatlands to uncover their crucial role in the fight against climate change. Our expert guests - Prof Lorna Dawson, Principal Scientist at the James Hutton Institute, Dr Lydia Cole, Lecturer at the University of St Andrews, and Luisa Orci Fernandez, Hydro Nation Scholar and PhD student at the University of Edinburgh - bring their wealth of knowledge on soil science, land management, and climate resilience to the discussion.We begin by exploring what soil is and how Scotland's soil landscape compares to other countries. Despite its critical importance, how much do we truly know about the soils beneath our feet? The conversation moves to how we’ve historically managed our soils and how practices have changed over time. The guests shed light on the importance of peatlands, particularly in Scotland, where areas like the Flow Country have recently gained UNESCO World Heritage status. What does this designation mean for conservation and climate strategies?The discussion also touches on the different opinions surrounding land use in Scotland. Are we all in agreement on how land should be managed, or are there conflicts that need resolving? Finally, we delve into the future of land use strategies and partnerships, examining how Scotland can move forward in balancing conservation, agriculture, and community interests.Tune in to learn how the soil beneath us holds the potential to shape Scotland’s climate resilience and land-use strategies for years to come!

    1h 1m
  4. JAN 21

    Beneath the Surface: Groundwater, geothermal, and climate resilience

    In this episode of The SAGES Climate Science Podcast, we take a deep dive into Scotland’s underground environment and explore how it can play a crucial role in climate resilience. Joining us are Dr. Andrew Minto, a Lecturer in Civil Engineering at Abertay University, and Brady Johnson, a Hydro Nation Scholar and PhD candidate at the University of Aberdeen, to share their expertise on groundwater, geothermal energy, and the future of water management in Scotland.We start by discussing Scotland’s water supply, which is commonly perceived as abundant. But is this always the case? Brady Johnson explores how climate change is affecting the availability of water for drinking and other uses, especially in areas and times of the year where water shortages are becoming more frequent. He also sheds light on the vital role that groundwater can play in building climate resilience and the regions in Scotland best suited for this resource.Dr. Andrew Minto takes us below the surface, into Scotland’s world-renowned geology, to explain the exciting potential of geothermal energy. Could Scotland's underground heat be the key to sustainable energy generation? Andrew discusses how specific parts of Scotland are well-positioned for geothermal projects and shares examples from around the world where this form of energy is already proving successful.We’ll also explore the impacts of these innovations on communities and how people can play a role in managing water and energy resources more sustainably.Tune in to discover the hidden power beneath our feet and how it could shape Scotland’s climate future!

    59 min
  5. JAN 21

    Building Climate-Resilient Cities: Blue-green infrastructure and inclusive planning

    In this episode of The SAGES Climate Science Podcast, we focus on the pressing environmental impacts cities face and explore how urbanisation has amplified climate change challenges. Our guests, Sarah Crowe, a Hydro Nation scholar and interdisciplinary PhD student at the University of Dundee, and Fatemeh Mahmoudnejad, a PhD researcher in Urban Planning at the same university, bring their expertise on urban planning and blue-green infrastructure.We begin by discussing how urban environments are particularly vulnerable to climate impacts such as heatwaves and flooding, and how city design has contributed to these issues. Sarah Crowe shares her insights into how blue-green infrastructure - integrating natural systems like water and greenery into city planning - can help make cities more resilient while also benefiting the people living in them. However, we also examine the barriers to implementing blue-green infrastructure, including regulatory, financial, and community challenges.Fatemeh Mahmoudnejad emphasises the importance of inclusive community participation in urban planning. Who gets to shape their city, and who is left out? Fatemeh highlights the underrepresented voices in decision-making, especially marginalised communities, and shares strategies for fostering greater engagement and co-designing cities that work for everyone.Join us for a discussion on how we can build climate-resilient cities that are inclusive and sustainable. Learn how listeners can get involved in urban planning decisions and ensure their communities are part of the conversation about our climate future.

    45 min

About

Join us on The SAGES Climate Science Podcast, brought to you by SAGES, the Scottish Alliance for Geoscience Environment and Society, from Scotland’s leading scientists. We delve into the latest research and pressing issues in climate science, with a special focus on Scotland’s changing environment. From flooding and urban resilience to the role of the ocean and underground energy, each episode brings together experts from diverse fields to explore the science, challenges, and innovative solutions shaping our planet’s future. Through engaging discussions, we uncover how climate change is transforming Scotland’s landscapes, from its coasts and soils to its frozen and urban environments. Learn about groundbreaking technologies, the human impacts of environmental change, and community-led efforts to build resilience. Whether it’s tackling public health challenges, advancing sustainable energy, or protecting vital ecosystems like peatlands and blue carbon reserves, our podcast offers insights and inspiration for everyone passionate about creating a sustainable future. Tune in to discover how cutting-edge science, collaboration, and action address the climate crisis, and what role you can play in shaping a better tomorrow.

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