Down to Earth Podcast
1) French-American chemist makes major breakthrough in recycling of rare earths
Rare earth elements, which are crucial for the defence, auto and electronic industries, have become a geopolitical battleground. On Wednesday, the EU unveiled a €3 billion plan to curb its dependence ...Show More
2) The cow of the future? France introduces smaller, low-emission livestock
How can we reduce greenhouse gas emissions? In the wake of the COP30 climate conference in Brazil, attention is turning to cattle. A single cow produces between 154 to 264 pounds of methane gas per ye...Show More
3) What are the key takeaways from the COP30 climate summit?
The COP30 climate summit came to an end this weekend with a weak compromise deal that skips over most countries' key demands. The agreement pledges to provide more funding to help vulnerable nations a...Show More
4) Climate change killed his friend. Now he's seeking justice
The effects of climate change are being felt around the world, with extreme weather events becoming more frequent and intense. According to recent estimates, climate inaction is on track to cost the g...Show More
5) To peat, or not to peat? Scotch whisky's iconic ingredient at heart of climate concerns
In Scotland, whisky production is facing growing criticism over its environmental impact.Many distilleries still burn peat, a soil-like material that gives whisky its signature smoky flavour. But thos...Show More
6) Could this French village disappear? Erosion eats away at Mont-Saint-Michel coastline
In the bay of France's famed Mont-Saint-Michel, postcard-perfect villages are slowly being swallowed by the sea. In the space of just 70 years, the Saint-Jean-le-Thomas coastline has receded by 300 me...Show More
7) Make it rain: New Delhi trials cloud seeding to combat deadly smog
New Delhi could see artificial rain fall over the Indian capital for the first time later this week. The regional government is trialling a cloud-seeding experiment to induce artificial rain in a bid ...Show More
8) These algae could save vineyards from pesticides
Are winegrowers forever doomed to use pesticides? Some French scientists say no. A team of researchers and a burgeoning startup are working to bring microalgae-based fungicides to market. They would s...Show More
9) France's organic sector in crisis: Is the end in sight?
For the past two years, the share of organic farmland has dropped drastically in France, with many farmers abandoning organic methods and reverting back to industrial farming. It means that now just o...Show More
10) Hedgehogs at risk of extinction: Spiky animals could disappear by 2050
In some parts of Europe, the number of hedgehogs has halved️. Animal activists warn that these tiny, spiky creatures could disappear by 2050. In France and the UK, rescue centres are racing to save th...Show More