http://planetearth.nerc.ac.uk/multimedia/index.aspx http://planetearth.nerc.ac.uk/images/template/podcast-cover-100x100.jpg http://planetearth.nerc.ac.uk/ en-gb Natural Environment Research Council The Planet Earth podcast - putting you in touch with the latest environmental research. Natural Environment Research Council Just arrived on Planet Earth? Discover the science behind climate change, biodiversity, earthquakes, volcanoes, life in deep-sea trenches, and much more about the natural world. The Planet Earth podcast - putting you in touch with the latest environmental research. Just arrived on Planet Earth? Discover the science behind climate change, biodiversity, earthquakes, volcanoes, life in deep-sea trenches, and much more about the natural world. The Planet Earth podcast - putting you in touch with the latest environmental research. environment, climate change, biodiversity, volcanoes, earthquakes, natural world Thu, 09 Feb 2012 05:43:19 GMT no Natural Environment Research Council editors@nerc.ac.uk Natural Environment Research Council How science is helping to bring polluted urban rivers back to life. This week in the Planet Earth Podcast: Richard Hollingham goes to the River Wandle in south-west London to find out how scientific research is helping to revitalise this heavily-used river; later he goes to Cambridge to hear about some of the hottest conservation topics for 2012. This week in the Planet Earth Podcast: Richard Hollingham goes to the River Wandle in south-west London to find out how scientific research is helping to revitalise this heavily-used river; later he goes to Cambridge to hear about some of the hottest conservation topics for 2012. http://planetearth.nerc.ac.uk/multimedia/audio/andle.mp3 Tue, 31 Jan 2012 08:00:00 GMT no 1224 Natural Environment Research Council New species from the Southern Ocean's hydrothermal vents. It's not often that science news goes viral, but when researchers dubbed a new species the 'Hoff Crab' more people than usual seemed to take notice! It's not often that science news goes viral, but when researchers dubbed a new species the 'Hoff Crab' more people than usual seemed to take notice! http://planetearth.nerc.ac.uk/multimedia/audio/ntarctic-species.mp3 Tue, 17 Jan 2012 07:00:00 GMT no 1293 Natural Environment Research Council How the Parkour craze is linked to orang-utan conservation. This week in the Planet Earth Podcast: Sue Nelson goes to Birmingham to find out how the James Bond film Casino Royale and orang-utan conservation are linked; later she meets a scientist from the British Geological Survey to learn which parts of the UK power grid are most at risk during solar storms. This week in the Planet Earth Podcast: Sue Nelson goes to Birmingham to find out how the James Bond film Casino Royale and orang-utan conservation are linked; later she meets a scientist from the British Geological Survey to learn which parts of the UK power grid are most at risk during solar storms. http://planetearth.nerc.ac.uk/multimedia/audio/arkour.mp3 Tue, 03 Jan 2012 00:00:00 GMT no 1154 Natural Environment Research Council On-the-spot reports from the Arctic, Sweden, Canada, Monterey Bay, and Antarctica. This week in the Planet Earth Podcast: we've got an end-of-year bumper edition featuring the best of our audio diaries from 2011. We feature scientists reporting their research from the Arctic, Sweden, Canada, Monterey Bay in California, and the Antarctic. This week in the Planet Earth Podcast: we've got an end-of-year bumper edition featuring the best of our audio diaries from 2011. We feature scientists reporting their research from the Arctic, Sweden, Canada, Monterey Bay in California, and the Antarctic. http://planetearth.nerc.ac.uk/multimedia/audio/2011-audio-diaries.mp3 Tue, 20 Dec 2011 09:00:00 GMT no 1307 Natural Environment Research Council A look at one of the world's largest movable flood barriers. This week in the Planet Earth Podcast: Sue Nelson goes to the Thames Barrier to find out how engineers use science to decide whether or not to raise or lower it, helping to stop storm surges from flooding London; while Richard Hollingham meets a scientist who developed a technique that reveals the colour of truly ancient fossilised birds. This week in the Planet Earth Podcast: Sue Nelson goes to the Thames Barrier to find out how engineers use science to decide whether or not to raise or lower it, helping to stop storm surges from flooding London; while Richard Hollingham meets a scientist who developed a technique that reveals the colour of truly ancient fossilised birds. http://planetearth.nerc.ac.uk/multimedia/audio/hames-barrier.mp3 Tue, 06 Dec 2011 09:00:00 GMT no 1273 Natural Environment Research Council Why the ozone hole found over Antarctica in the 80s is still there. This week in the Planet Earth Podcast: Richard Hollingham talks to one of the scientists behind the discovery of the ozone hole to find why it's still there; how research on starlings on an island famous for its sweaters could help bird conservationists; and why forest fires in North America affect people thousands of miles away in Europe. This week in the Planet Earth Podcast: Richard Hollingham talks to one of the scientists behind the discovery of the ozone hole to find why it's still there; how research on starlings on an island famous for its sweaters could help bird conservationists; and why forest fires in North America affect people thousands of miles away in Europe. http://planetearth.nerc.ac.uk/multimedia/audio/zone.mp3 Tue, 22 Nov 2011 09:00:00 GMT no 1207 Natural Environment Research Council How UK researchers are helping African snakebite victims. This week in the Planet Earth Podcast: Sue Nelson visits the largest collection of venomous snakes in the UK to find out how researchers are developing antivenoms to help African snakebite victims; and what scientists are doing to understand why populations of the European shag are declining. This week in the Planet Earth Podcast: Sue Nelson visits the largest collection of venomous snakes in the UK to find out how researchers are developing antivenoms to help African snakebite victims; and what scientists are doing to understand why populations of the European shag are declining. http://planetearth.nerc.ac.uk/multimedia/audio/nakes.mp3 Tue, 08 Nov 2011 09:00:00 GMT no 1253 Natural Environment Research Council Did they really drive mammoths over the cliff edge? This week in the Planet Earth Podcast: Richard Hollingham meets scientists and archaeologists who are working to preserve one of the most important Neanderthal settlements in north-west Europe to find out how they lived; later on, he visits the local primary school to find out what schoolchildren make of the Neanderthals. This week in the Planet Earth Podcast: Richard Hollingham meets scientists and archaeologists who are working to preserve one of the most important Neanderthal settlements in north-west Europe to find out how they lived; later on, he visits the local primary school to find out what schoolchildren make of the Neanderthals. http://planetearth.nerc.ac.uk/multimedia/audio/eanderthals.mp3 Tue, 25 Oct 2011 08:00:00 +0100 no 1184 Natural Environment Research Council How fossil proteins and radioactive waste are linked. This week in the Planet Earth Podcast: how scientists find out about life in the oceans' deepest trenches; how identifying proteins from 50 milion year old reptile skin could help us store radioactive waste; and studying the effects of climate change in the Arctic. This week in the Planet Earth Podcast: how scientists find out about life in the oceans' deepest trenches; how identifying proteins from 50 milion year old reptile skin could help us store radioactive waste; and studying the effects of climate change in the Arctic. http://planetearth.nerc.ac.uk/multimedia/audio/berdeen.mp3 Tue, 11 Oct 2011 00:00:00 +0100 no 1231 Natural Environment Research Council How hikers could be unwittingly changing their local landscape. This week in the Planet Earth Podcast: how hikers and walkers could be unwittingly changing the landscape by spreading alien species; what it's like to work as a marine biologist in the Arctic in temperatures of minus 40°C; and exactly how stable is the West Antarctic Ice Sheet? This week in the Planet Earth Podcast: how hikers and walkers could be unwittingly changing the landscape by spreading alien species; what it's like to work as a marine biologist in the Arctic in temperatures of minus 40°C; and exactly how stable is the West Antarctic Ice Sheet? http://planetearth.nerc.ac.uk/multimedia/audio/ikers.mp3 Tue, 27 Sep 2011 00:00:00 +0100 no 1263 Natural Environment Research Council How technological solutions could help limit climate change. This week in the Planet Earth Podcast: in a geoengineering special edition, we take a closer look at some of the technologies we may have to resort to using to avert dangerous climate change. This week in the Planet Earth Podcast: in a geoengineering special edition, we take a closer look at some of the technologies we may have to resort to using to avert dangerous climate change. http://planetearth.nerc.ac.uk/multimedia/audio/eoengineering.mp3 Wed, 14 Sep 2011 08:00:00 +0100 no 1276 Natural Environment Research Council Why conservationists are restoring the landscape around Stonehenge. This week in the Planet Earth Podcast: why scientists are working with the National Trust to restore the chalk grasslands around Stonehenge; how scientists are using satellites to study microscopic plants; and the etiquette of dining and bullying in baboons. This week in the Planet Earth Podcast: why scientists are working with the National Trust to restore the chalk grasslands around Stonehenge; how scientists are using satellites to study microscopic plants; and the etiquette of dining and bullying in baboons. http://planetearth.nerc.ac.uk/multimedia/audio/tonehenge.mp3 Tue, 23 Aug 2011 00:00:00 +0100 no 1181 Natural Environment Research Council Why fish scales reveal Atlantic salmon feeding grounds. This week in the Planet Earth Podcast: how scientists are using fish scales to figure out why the UK salmon population is falling; and how carbon dioxide emissions from power stations could be used to make household bricks. This week in the Planet Earth Podcast: how scientists are using fish scales to figure out why the UK salmon population is falling; and how carbon dioxide emissions from power stations could be used to make household bricks. http://planetearth.nerc.ac.uk/multimedia/audio/almon.mp3 Thu, 11 Aug 2011 17:39:53 +0100 no 1053 Natural Environment Research Council How do you reach a lake 3km beneath the Antarctic ice sheet? This week in the Planet Earth Podcast: why scientists are planning on drilling three kilometres beneath the Antarctic ice sheet in one of the most ambitious exploration projects ever undertaken; and how worms that feed on dead whale bones at the bottom of the ocean may be distorting the whale fossil record. This week in the Planet Earth Podcast: why scientists are planning on drilling three kilometres beneath the Antarctic ice sheet in one of the most ambitious exploration projects ever undertaken; and how worms that feed on dead whale bones at the bottom of the ocean may be distorting the whale fossil record. http://planetearth.nerc.ac.uk/multimedia/audio/llsworth.mp3 Tue, 26 Jul 2011 09:00:00 +0100 no 1176 Natural Environment Research Council How rip current research in Cornwall could help save lives. This week in the Planet Earth Podcast: why understanding rip currents at Perranporth in north Cornwall could help save lives; and how exactly does carbon capture and storage (CCS) work and how can scientists be sure that co2 will be stored forever? This week in the Planet Earth Podcast: why understanding rip currents at Perranporth in north Cornwall could help save lives; and how exactly does carbon capture and storage (CCS) work and how can scientists be sure that co2 will be stored forever? http://planetearth.nerc.ac.uk/multimedia/audio/erranporth.mp3 Tue, 12 Jul 2011 13:53:56 +0100 no 1094 Natural Environment Research Council Why weathermen are using a WWII bunker to monitor clouds. This week in the Planet Earth Podcast: why weathermen are using a converted World War II bunker to monitor clouds; how thug species such as bramble, nettle and bracken can be just as damaging to woodlands as alien plants; and why scientists are going to Greenland to deploy a network of sensors in some of the country's glaciers. This week in the Planet Earth Podcast: why weathermen are using a converted World War II bunker to monitor clouds; how thug species such as bramble, nettle and bracken can be just as damaging to woodlands as alien plants; and why scientists are going to Greenland to deploy a network of sensors in some of the country's glaciers. http://planetearth.nerc.ac.uk/multimedia/audio/eybourne.mp3 Tue, 28 Jun 2011 00:00:00 +0100 no 1194 Natural Environment Research Council How farmers are helping stem the decline in pollinating insects. This week in the Planet Earth Podcast: what UK farmers are doing to protect the country's vanishing bumblebees, butterflies and other pollinating insects; how scientists are trying to figure out how many types of microbes there are on our planet and why they all matter; and why birds are more amazing than we ever imagined. This week in the Planet Earth Podcast: what UK farmers are doing to protect the country's vanishing bumblebees, butterflies and other pollinating insects; how scientists are trying to figure out how many types of microbes there are on our planet and why they all matter; and why birds are more amazing than we ever imagined. http://planetearth.nerc.ac.uk/multimedia/audio/eading.mp3 Mon, 13 Jun 2011 14:14:53 +0100 no 1220 Natural Environment Research Council A look at the tricks the cuckoo uses to stay ahead of its hosts. This week in the Planet Earth Podcast: the cunning tricks the cuckoo uses to get another bird to do the parenting, why researchers are studying snow in Sweden, and how an improved radiocarbon dating technique may put a few scientists' noses out of joint. This week in the Planet Earth Podcast: the cunning tricks the cuckoo uses to get another bird to do the parenting, why researchers are studying snow in Sweden, and how an improved radiocarbon dating technique may put a few scientists' noses out of joint. http://planetearth.nerc.ac.uk/multimedia/audio/icken-en.mp3 Wed, 01 Jun 2011 17:05:48 +0100 no 1259 Natural Environment Research Council Why removing flood defences might not be such a crazy idea. This week in the Planet Earth Podcast: why removing some man-made coastal flood defences might not be such a harebrained idea, what it's like studying gas exchange in the wilds of the Southern Ocean, and -- in what could be the first case of 'natural' geoengineering -- how forests could be whitening the clouds right above them. This week in the Planet Earth Podcast: why removing some man-made coastal flood defences might not be such a harebrained idea, what it's like studying gas exchange in the wilds of the Southern Ocean, and -- in what could be the first case of 'natural' geoengineering -- how forests could be whitening the clouds right above them. http://planetearth.nerc.ac.uk/multimedia/audio/orfolk.mp3 Wed, 18 May 2011 09:00:00 +0100 no 1132 Natural Environment Research Council A look at protecting communications satellites from space storms. This week in the Planet Earth Podcast: how a specially-designed twin turboprop research plane is helping scientists in a huge range of subjects from archaeology to ecology, and why a violent space storm could spell trouble for communications systems across the world. This week in the Planet Earth Podcast: how a specially-designed twin turboprop research plane is helping scientists in a huge range of subjects from archaeology to ecology, and why a violent space storm could spell trouble for communications systems across the world. http://planetearth.nerc.ac.uk/multimedia/audio/ornier.mp3 Wed, 04 May 2011 12:07:48 +0100 no 1285 Natural Environment Research Council The threats volcanoes pose to both aircraft and human health. This week in the Planet Earth Podcast: how last year's eruption of the still-unpronounceable Eyjafjallajökull volcano in Iceland gave scientists an unparalleled opportunity for research, and why sediment from rivers like the Thames can act like time machines to bygone eras. This week in the Planet Earth Podcast: how last year's eruption of the still-unpronounceable Eyjafjallajökull volcano in Iceland gave scientists an unparalleled opportunity for research, and why sediment from rivers like the Thames can act like time machines to bygone eras. http://planetearth.nerc.ac.uk/multimedia/audio/xford.mp3 Tue, 19 Apr 2011 09:00:00 +0100 no 1152 Natural Environment Research Council How the Chernobyl disaster affects Northern Ireland 25 years on. This week in the Planet Earth Podcast: how scientists plan to measure the Earth's magnetic field from space, why one researcher is in the frozen town of Churchill in northern Canada, and how the Chernobyl disaster still affects Northern Ireland 25 years on. This week in the Planet Earth Podcast: how scientists plan to measure the Earth's magnetic field from space, why one researcher is in the frozen town of Churchill in northern Canada, and how the Chernobyl disaster still affects Northern Ireland 25 years on. http://planetearth.nerc.ac.uk/multimedia/audio/strium.mp3 Wed, 06 Apr 2011 00:00:00 +0100 no 1245 Natural Environment Research Council How the White Cliffs of Dover and fish poo could be connected. This week in the Planet Earth Podcast: how the famous White Cliffs of Dover could be made of fish poo (at least partially), why one researcher is so interested in dead whales, and why the Japan earthquake was so powerful and devastating. This week in the Planet Earth Podcast: how the famous White Cliffs of Dover could be made of fish poo (at least partially), why one researcher is so interested in dead whales, and why the Japan earthquake was so powerful and devastating. http://planetearth.nerc.ac.uk/multimedia/audio/xeter.mp3 Wed, 23 Mar 2011 11:59:19 GMT no 1206 Natural Environment Research Council Why carbon capture and storage looks like it's here to stay. This week in the Planet Earth Podcast: how carbon capture and storage works and why it's here to stay, the effect of floodplains on water pollution, and how exactly do you measure the thickness of polar ice from space? This week in the Planet Earth Podcast: how carbon capture and storage works and why it's here to stay, the effect of floodplains on water pollution, and how exactly do you measure the thickness of polar ice from space? http://planetearth.nerc.ac.uk/multimedia/audio/arbonapture.mp3 Tue, 08 Mar 2011 00:00:00 GMT no 1203 Natural Environment Research Council How tracking insects can help scientists forecast summer storms. This week in the Planet Earth Podcast: how tracking insects can help scientists forecast summer storms and floods, and the role one of Europe's key satellite missions played in the recent floods in Queensland, Australia. This week in the Planet Earth Podcast: how tracking insects can help scientists forecast summer storms and floods, and the role one of Europe's key satellite missions played in the recent floods in Queensland, Australia. http://planetearth.nerc.ac.uk/multimedia/audio/hilbolton.mp3 Wed, 23 Feb 2011 00:00:00 GMT no 1091 Natural Environment Research Council What Europe's gravity mission tells us about ocean currents. This week in the Planet Earth Podcast: how the Romans recycled glass, dinosaur colour, and what Europe's gravity mission tells us about ocean currents. This week in the Planet Earth Podcast: how the Romans recycled glass, dinosaur colour, and what Europe's gravity mission tells us about ocean currents. http://planetearth.nerc.ac.uk/multimedia/audio/Gravitymission.mp3 Tue, 08 Feb 2011 17:00:50 GMT no 1267 Natural Environment Research Council How the underwater world isn't the soundless place you might imagine. In this latest watery-themed Planet Earth Podcast, Richard Hollingham hears how the underwater world isn't the soundless place you might imagine. In this latest watery-themed Planet Earth Podcast, Richard Hollingham hears how the underwater world isn't the soundless place you might imagine. http://planetearth.nerc.ac.uk/multimedia/audio/ReefNoise.mp3 Tue, 25 Jan 2011 00:00:00 GMT no 1123 Natural Environment Research Council Coral reefs in Essex lay bare ocean acidification's effect on coral. As the UK winter continues to bite, Sue Nelson tries to escape it all by going to visit a coral reef. As the UK winter continues to bite, Sue Nelson tries to escape it all by going to visit a coral reef. http://planetearth.nerc.ac.uk/multimedia/audio/Essex.mp3 Tue, 11 Jan 2011 00:00:00 GMT no 1109 Natural Environment Research Council We've got cannons, mongoose poo, impressions of Darth Vader and tiger leeches in this special podcast. In this week's special edition of the Planet Earth podcast, we feature some of our favourite audio diaries from the past year. In this week's special edition of the Planet Earth podcast, we feature some of our favourite audio diaries from the past year. http://planetearth.nerc.ac.uk/multimedia/audio/Xmas.mp3 Tue, 21 Dec 2010 00:00:00 GMT no 1284 Natural Environment Research Council How scientists are getting to grips with the deadly squirrel pox virus. Red squirrels used to be the most common squirrel in Britain. But since the grey squirrel was introduced from the USA as an illegal immigrant in the late 1800s, their numbers have nose-dived. Red squirrels used to be the most common squirrel in Britain. But since the grey squirrel was introduced from the USA as an illegal immigrant in the late 1800s, their numbers have nose-dived. http://planetearth.nerc.ac.uk/multimedia/audio/squirrels.mp3 Tue, 07 Dec 2010 00:00:00 GMT no 1070 Natural Environment Research Council How you may be contributing to the destruction of pristine rainforest. Does your shopping basket contain chocolate, biscuits and shampoo? If it does, you may be unwittingly contributing to the destruction of the some of the world's pristine rainforests. Does your shopping basket contain chocolate, biscuits and shampoo? If it does, you may be unwittingly contributing to the destruction of the some of the world's pristine rainforests. http://planetearth.nerc.ac.uk/multimedia/audio/Borneo.mp3 Tue, 23 Nov 2010 15:14:56 GMT no 1357 Natural Environment Research Council Plants with loads of DNA could face problems as the climate changes. In this week's Planet Earth podcast, Sue Nelson reports from the Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew where she finds out that some plants like the Snake's Head Fritillary have enormous amounts of DNA in their genomes. In this week's Planet Earth podcast, Sue Nelson reports from the Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew where she finds out that some plants like the Snake's Head Fritillary have enormous amounts of DNA in their genomes. http://planetearth.nerc.ac.uk/multimedia/audio/Kew.mp3 Tue, 09 Nov 2010 00:00:00 GMT no 1247 Natural Environment Research Council Why scientists are tagging barrel-sized barrel jellyfish. Unless you've never seen the sea, you've probably seen a jellyfish. And even if you haven't seen one, you will almost certainly know what they look like. Despite this, scientists know surprisingly little about them. Unless you've never seen the sea, you've probably seen a jellyfish. And even if you haven't seen one, you will almost certainly know what they look like. Despite this, scientists know surprisingly little about them. http://planetearth.nerc.ac.uk/multimedia/audio/jellyfish2.mp3 Tue, 26 Oct 2010 00:00:00 +0100 no 1101 Natural Environment Research Council Why we're more likely to cross busy roads if the person next to us does. Have you ever noticed that when you cross a busy road, as well as clocking the traffic, you subconsciously follow what your neighbours do? Have you ever noticed that when you cross a busy road, as well as clocking the traffic, you subconsciously follow what your neighbours do? http://planetearth.nerc.ac.uk/multimedia/audio/mongooses.mp3 Tue, 12 Oct 2010 00:00:00 +0100 no 1107 Natural Environment Research Council BGS completes the first full survey of Lake Windermere. British Geological Survey scientists have completed the first full geological survey of Lake Windermere in the English Lake District since the Royal Navy made a survey in the 1930s. British Geological Survey scientists have completed the first full geological survey of Lake Windermere in the English Lake District since the Royal Navy made a survey in the 1930s. http://planetearth.nerc.ac.uk/multimedia/audio/windermere.mp3 Tue, 28 Sep 2010 00:00:00 +0100 no 1082 Natural Environment Research Council Aliens in Antarctica - a bigger threat than you might imagine. Scientists recently found plastics floating in some of the most remote and inaccessible seas in the world -- just off the coast of Antarctica. Scientists recently found plastics floating in some of the most remote and inaccessible seas in the world -- just off the coast of Antarctica. http://planetearth.nerc.ac.uk/multimedia/audio/plastics.mp3 Tue, 14 Sep 2010 00:00:00 +0100 no 1154 Natural Environment Research Council How butterflies and buoys can tell us about climate change. In this week's Planet Earth podcast, Sue Nelson goes to the Eden Project in Cornwall, southwest England and to the South Downs in southeast England to find out what butterfly research is telling us about climate change. In this week's Planet Earth podcast, Sue Nelson goes to the Eden Project in Cornwall, southwest England and to the South Downs in southeast England to find out what butterfly research is telling us about climate change. http://planetearth.nerc.ac.uk/multimedia/audio/EdenProject.mp3 Tue, 31 Aug 2010 00:00:00 +0100 no 1065 Natural Environment Research Council A seaside special with a few pan scourers thrown in. Everyone loves a rockpool, and Sue Nelson nearly takes a dive into one in this week's podcast while finding out about the riches they contain. Everyone loves a rockpool, and Sue Nelson nearly takes a dive into one in this week's podcast while finding out about the riches they contain. http://planetearth.nerc.ac.uk/multimedia/audio/rockpools.mp3 Mon, 16 Aug 2010 00:00:00 +0100 no 966 Natural Environment Research Council Hear about the tern's athletic feats, plus the latest news from space. As the map of Earth's gravity -- as revealed by the European Space Agency's sleek GOCE satellite -- comes into sharper focus, Richard Hollingham speaks to a researcher who tells us what early results from the satellite show. As the map of Earth's gravity -- as revealed by the European Space Agency's sleek GOCE satellite -- comes into sharper focus, Richard Hollingham speaks to a researcher who tells us what early results from the satellite show. http://planetearth.nerc.ac.uk/multimedia/audio/arctic-terns,-satellites.mp3 Mon, 02 Aug 2010 09:00:00 +0100 no 974 Natural Environment Research Council Hear bowerbirds mimicking people and how a TV tower measures CO2. This week, Richard Hollingham finds out that bowerbirds are not just brilliant at making elaborate bowers, they're also good at mimicking other birds and pretty much most sounds they hear -- including human voices. This week, Richard Hollingham finds out that bowerbirds are not just brilliant at making elaborate bowers, they're also good at mimicking other birds and pretty much most sounds they hear -- including human voices. http://planetearth.nerc.ac.uk/multimedia/audio/Measuring-CO2.mp3 Tue, 20 Jul 2010 00:00:00 +0100 no 1042 Natural Environment Research Council Richard Hollingham sends a special report 1000 kilometres from the North Pole. This week Richard Hollingham reports from an unusual and somewhat cold location - onboard the British Antarctic Survey's RRS {i:James Clark Ross} which was stuck in the ice for two weeks 1000 kilometres from the North Pole. This week Richard Hollingham reports from an unusual and somewhat cold location - onboard the British Antarctic Survey's RRS {i:James Clark Ross} which was stuck in the ice for two weeks 1000 kilometres from the North Pole. http://planetearth.nerc.ac.uk/multimedia/audio/Arctic-expedition.mp3 Mon, 05 Jul 2010 00:00:00 +0100 no 1180 Natural Environment Research Council How we may soon see a new ocean appear in the Afar region of Africa. In this week's Planet Earth podcast, Sue Nelson hears about the birth of an ocean in the Afar depression in the Horn of Africa. In this week's Planet Earth podcast, Sue Nelson hears about the birth of an ocean in the Afar depression in the Horn of Africa. http://planetearth.nerc.ac.uk/multimedia/audio/Splitting-Earth.mp3 Mon, 21 Jun 2010 00:00:00 +0100 no 1195 Natural Environment Research Council How the buildings we live and work in could be made energy efficient. With efforts to improve energy efficiency focussed on green transport to sustainable power generation, growing your own food to reducing waste, it's often easy to forget that the very buildings we live and work in could also be made energy efficient. With efforts to improve energy efficiency focussed on green transport to sustainable power generation, growing your own food to reducing waste, it's often easy to forget that the very buildings we live and work in could also be made energy efficient. http://planetearth.nerc.ac.uk/multimedia/audio/green-buildings.mp3 Mon, 07 Jun 2010 17:17:57 +0100 no 1177 Natural Environment Research Council Are major earthquakes becoming more frequent? It seems that hardly a week goes by without a major earthquake striking somewhere in the world, which may be why many people have been asking scientists at the British Geological Survey if earthquakes are getting more frequent. It seems that hardly a week goes by without a major earthquake striking somewhere in the world, which may be why many people have been asking scientists at the British Geological Survey if earthquakes are getting more frequent. http://planetearth.nerc.ac.uk/multimedia/audio/Plymouth-Marine-Lab.mp3 Tue, 25 May 2010 16:34:57 +0100 no 1183 Natural Environment Research Council How NERC's Dornier aircraft flew into the volcanic ash. As ash from Eyjafjallajökull volcano continues to nudge at UK airspace, Richard Hollingham takes a closer look at the aircraft that flew into April's cloud. As ash from Eyjafjallajökull volcano continues to nudge at UK airspace, Richard Hollingham takes a closer look at the aircraft that flew into April's cloud. http://planetearth.nerc.ac.uk/multimedia/audio/dornier.mp3 Mon, 10 May 2010 11:03:40 +0100 no 1151 Natural Environment Research Council Hear what the Census of Marine Life reveals about Antarctica. You could be forgiven for thinking the freezing seas around Antarctica are pretty barren and lifeless. But, as Richard Hollingham soon finds out, this couldn't be further from the truth. You could be forgiven for thinking the freezing seas around Antarctica are pretty barren and lifeless. But, as Richard Hollingham soon finds out, this couldn't be further from the truth. http://planetearth.nerc.ac.uk/multimedia/audio/marine-life.mp3 Mon, 26 Apr 2010 00:00:00 +0100 no 1027 Natural Environment Research Council How researchers use Diamond Light Source to study the environment. In this week's Planet Earth podcast from the impressively-named Diamond Light Source in Oxfordshire, England, hear how two researchers are using hi-tech physics to study different aspects of the environment. In this week's Planet Earth podcast from the impressively-named Diamond Light Source in Oxfordshire, England, hear how two researchers are using hi-tech physics to study different aspects of the environment. http://planetearth.nerc.ac.uk/multimedia/audio/diamond.mp3 Mon, 12 Apr 2010 09:00:00 +0100 no 1039 Natural Environment Research Council How a changing climate could affect the spread of invasive species. Look around the English countryside and you'll find animals and plants that shouldn't be there -- from Muntjac deer to Mitten crabs, Harlequin ladybirds to Tree of Heaven. Look around the English countryside and you'll find animals and plants that shouldn't be there -- from Muntjac deer to Mitten crabs, Harlequin ladybirds to Tree of Heaven. http://planetearth.nerc.ac.uk/multimedia/audio/invasive-species.mp3 Mon, 29 Mar 2010 00:00:00 +0100 no 910 Natural Environment Research Council Hear about the new threats facing our coral reefs and rainforests. Coral reefs are among the most beautiful habitats in the world. As well as being rich in biodiversity, they're vital for the local economies that depend on them for fishing, tourism or protection from storms. Coral reefs are among the most beautiful habitats in the world. As well as being rich in biodiversity, they're vital for the local economies that depend on them for fishing, tourism or protection from storms. http://planetearth.nerc.ac.uk/multimedia/audio/corals.mp3 Mon, 15 Mar 2010 09:00:00 GMT no 1194 Natural Environment Research Council Why guppies are harassed and how promiscuity may be a good thing. In this week's X-rated edition of the Planet Earth podcast, we find out what sexual conflict means for female guppies, how female promiscuity may be a good thing and why female mongooses all give birth at the same time. In this week's X-rated edition of the Planet Earth podcast, we find out what sexual conflict means for female guppies, how female promiscuity may be a good thing and why female mongooses all give birth at the same time. http://planetearth.nerc.ac.uk/multimedia/audio/Guppies,-fruit-flies.mp3 Mon, 01 Mar 2010 11:50:43 GMT no 1319 Natural Environment Research Council How will miscanthus and willow crops affect the environment? Willow, palm, miscanthus and other energy crops are being touted as a possible solution to our growing energy security problems. Some people are suggesting that they could help replace fossil fuels, plugging Britain's energy gap and cutting our carbon footprint. Willow, palm, miscanthus and other energy crops are being touted as a possible solution to our growing energy security problems. Some people are suggesting that they could help replace fossil fuels, plugging Britain's energy gap and cutting our carbon footprint. http://planetearth.nerc.ac.uk/multimedia/audio/Energy-crops.mp3 Mon, 15 Feb 2010 09:00:00 GMT no 1037 Natural Environment Research Council Find out if technology can save us from climate change. This week we talk to two researchers about the technological solutions some scientists say we might have to use to tackle climate change. This week we talk to two researchers about the technological solutions some scientists say we might have to use to tackle climate change. http://planetearth.nerc.ac.uk/multimedia/audio/geoengineering.mp3 Mon, 08 Feb 2010 16:41:24 GMT no 1148 Natural Environment Research Council What teeth tell archaeologists about the past, and giant 3D spiders. This week we find out why teeth can tell archaeologists so much about the past, how to see giant spiders in 3D and why even fish understand that patience is a virtue. This week we find out why teeth can tell archaeologists so much about the past, how to see giant spiders in 3D and why even fish understand that patience is a virtue. http://planetearth.nerc.ac.uk/multimedia/audio/isotopes.mp3 Mon, 25 Jan 2010 14:35:00 GMT no 1147 Natural Environment Research Council How to find gold in the UK and why weather forecasters still struggle with storms. In this week's podcast, Richard Hollingham strikes gold - literally - while Sue Nelson finds out why weather forecasters still struggle to predict sudden, violent summer storms. In this week's podcast, Richard Hollingham strikes gold - literally - while Sue Nelson finds out why weather forecasters still struggle to predict sudden, violent summer storms. http://planetearth.nerc.ac.uk/multimedia/audio/gold.mp3 Mon, 11 Jan 2010 00:00:00 GMT no 946 Natural Environment Research Council Highlights from 2009 and some of the big stories to look forward to in 2010. In this week's podcast, we look back at some of the highlights from 12 months of Planet Earth podcasts, and look ahead to some of the big stories expected in 2010. In this week's podcast, we look back at some of the highlights from 12 months of Planet Earth podcasts, and look ahead to some of the big stories expected in 2010. http://planetearth.nerc.ac.uk/multimedia/audio/highlights2009.mp3 Tue, 22 Dec 2009 00:00:00 GMT no 1192 Natural Environment Research Council We go to the British Antarctic Survey to hear about the evidence for manmade climate change. As the world talks global warming, we go to one of the chilliest places in Europe - the British Antarctic Survey's (BAS) ice core store - to find out what evidence there is for manmade climate change. As the world talks global warming, we go to one of the chilliest places in Europe - the British Antarctic Survey's (BAS) ice core store - to find out what evidence there is for manmade climate change. http://planetearth.nerc.ac.uk/multimedia/audio/Climate-change.mp3 Fri, 11 Dec 2009 22:29:15 GMT no 1007 Natural Environment Research Council How satellites have revolutionised our understanding of climate change over the last three decades. With climate change and the talks in Copenhagen dominating the news right now, we find out how satellites have revolutionised our understanding of climate change. With climate change and the talks in Copenhagen dominating the news right now, we find out how satellites have revolutionised our understanding of climate change. http://planetearth.nerc.ac.uk/multimedia/audio/satellites.mp3 Mon, 30 Nov 2009 00:00:00 GMT no 966 Natural Environment Research Council Find out how scientists make ice clouds and even snow to understand how the climate works. If you're a scientist at the University of Manchester and you want some snow or even some ice clouds, you don't need to leave the building. If you're a scientist at the University of Manchester and you want some snow or even some ice clouds, you don't need to leave the building. http://planetearth.nerc.ac.uk/multimedia/audio/ice-clouds.mp3 Mon, 16 Nov 2009 13:29:35 GMT no 1125 Natural Environment Research Council Find out what's so special about a region of the North Pennines and an area of Northern Ireland. The UK is literally full of geology - so much so that many names of geological periods come from names of regions of the country. The most well-known being the Devonian (after Devon) and the Cambrian (the old name for Wales). The UK is literally full of geology - so much so that many names of geological periods come from names of regions of the country. The most well-known being the Devonian (after Devon) and the Cambrian (the old name for Wales). http://planetearth.nerc.ac.uk/multimedia/audio/geoparks2.mp3 Mon, 02 Nov 2009 06:00:00 GMT no 830 Natural Environment Research Council Find out which invasive species you really should worry about. Britain's being invaded by aliens. But they're not the sorts of aliens you'll see in science fiction movies. No, we're talking plants and animals. You've probably heard of a lot of them. Grey squirrels, harlequin ladybirds, buddleia, Japanese knotweed - the list goes on. Britain's being invaded by aliens. But they're not the sorts of aliens you'll see in science fiction movies. No, we're talking plants and animals. You've probably heard of a lot of them. Grey squirrels, harlequin ladybirds, buddleia, Japanese knotweed - the list goes on. http://planetearth.nerc.ac.uk/multimedia/audio/aliens.mp3 Mon, 19 Oct 2009 09:00:00 +0100 no 998 Natural Environment Research Council Why fish are running out and how tiny environmental details matter for some climate models. We've been told for years to eat more fish because it's so good for us. The Food Standards Agency advises everyone to eat at least two portions a week, one of which should be oily. We've been told for years to eat more fish because it's so good for us. The Food Standards Agency advises everyone to eat at least two portions a week, one of which should be oily. http://planetearth.nerc.ac.uk/multimedia/audio/fish-stocks.mp3 Mon, 05 Oct 2009 09:00:00 +0100 no 1116 Natural Environment Research Council Why satellite technology is set to tell us more about ocean currents. This week Richard Hollingham talks to Professor Meric Srokosz from the National Oceanography Centre, Southampton about a new European Space Agency satellite, due to be launched on 2 November. This week Richard Hollingham talks to Professor Meric Srokosz from the National Oceanography Centre, Southampton about a new European Space Agency satellite, due to be launched on 2 November. http://planetearth.nerc.ac.uk/multimedia/audio/smos.mp3 Mon, 21 Sep 2009 08:00:00 +0100 no 1039 Natural Environment Research Council How ice cores shed light on the climate's past - and its future. In the first instalment of our new and improved Planet Earth podcast, science writer and broadcaster Sue Nelson talks to Professor David Vaughan of the British Antarctic Survey (BAS) about the changes seen around the continent. In the first instalment of our new and improved Planet Earth podcast, science writer and broadcaster Sue Nelson talks to Professor David Vaughan of the British Antarctic Survey (BAS) about the changes seen around the continent. http://planetearth.nerc.ac.uk/multimedia/audio/ice-cores.mp3 Sat, 05 Sep 2009 09:00:00 +0100 no 1120 Natural Environment Research Council Geologists are helping protect the public from the risk of old mines. It's not obvious from the peaceful scene at ground level, but a disused salt mine in Carrickfergus near Belfast is a real threat to nearby housing and businesses. It's not obvious from the peaceful scene at ground level, but a disused salt mine in Carrickfergus near Belfast is a real threat to nearby housing and businesses. http://planetearth.nerc.ac.uk/multimedia/audio/mines_p1.mp3 Mon, 24 Aug 2009 06:00:00 +0100 no 489 Natural Environment Research Council Marble Arch Caves is the world's only transinternational and UNESCO-endorsed geopark. Straddling two counties, one in Northern Ireland and one in the Irish Republic, Marble Arch Caves is the world's only transinternational and UNESCO-endorsed geopark. Straddling two counties, one in Northern Ireland and one in the Irish Republic, Marble Arch Caves is the world's only transinternational and UNESCO-endorsed geopark. http://planetearth.nerc.ac.uk/multimedia/audio/geoparks.mp3 Mon, 17 Aug 2009 00:00:00 +0100 no 504 Natural Environment Research Council Scientists at the Centre for Ecology & Hydrology will soon be able to replicate global habitats. Researchers from the Centre for Ecology & Hydrology will soon be able to replicate habitats from around the world in a structure that's akin to a huge polytunnel. Researchers from the Centre for Ecology & Hydrology will soon be able to replicate habitats from around the world in a structure that's akin to a huge polytunnel. http://planetearth.nerc.ac.uk/multimedia/audio/grodome.mp3 Mon, 10 Aug 2009 12:13:10 +0100 no 453 Natural Environment Research Council Tiny wasps use galls as a defence against their enemies - usually other wasps. Gall wasps are so named because they con plants and trees into making so-called galls - abnormal growths - which they use as a defence against their enemies. Gall wasps are so named because they con plants and trees into making so-called galls - abnormal growths - which they use as a defence against their enemies. http://planetearth.nerc.ac.uk/multimedia/audio/gallwasps.mp3 Mon, 03 Aug 2009 15:52:46 +0100 no 334 Natural Environment Research Council The sea ice that surrounds Antarctica every winter contains million of microscopic creatures. The 20 million square kilometres of sea ice that surrounds Antarctica every winter is made of more than just water. It contains million of microscopic creatures. The 20 million square kilometres of sea ice that surrounds Antarctica every winter is made of more than just water. It contains million of microscopic creatures. http://planetearth.nerc.ac.uk/multimedia/audio/antarctic.mp3 Tue, 28 Jul 2009 00:00:00 +0100 no 513 Natural Environment Research Council How research is improving our understanding of future flood risk and helping protect people. Summer 2007 saw some of the worst floods in Britain since the 1940s. Summer 2007 saw some of the worst floods in Britain since the 1940s. http://planetearth.nerc.ac.uk/multimedia/audio/flooding.mp3 Mon, 20 Jul 2009 08:00:00 +0100 no 389 Natural Environment Research Council Rising ozone levels are not just bad for our health, they're harming plants and trees. Ozone gas is like Jekyll and Hyde: it's both good and bad. Too much is poisonous, but without it life on Earth isn't possible. Ozone gas is like Jekyll and Hyde: it's both good and bad. Too much is poisonous, but without it life on Earth isn't possible. http://planetearth.nerc.ac.uk/multimedia/audio/solardomes.mp3 Mon, 13 Jul 2009 08:00:00 +0100 no 351 Natural Environment Research Council Hedgehog populations are rocketing in the Outer Hebrides to the detriment of local invertebrates. Although their numbers are in decline in mainland Britain, hedgehog populations have grown so large in the Scottish Outer Hebrides, they are now seen as a pest. Although their numbers are in decline in mainland Britain, hedgehog populations have grown so large in the Scottish Outer Hebrides, they are now seen as a pest. http://planetearth.nerc.ac.uk/multimedia/audio/hedgehog.mp3 Mon, 06 Jul 2009 14:34:54 +0100 no 357 Natural Environment Research Council How different habitats affect the shoaling behaviour of fish. Fish perceive simple rivers as safe places to be, so they spend more time swimming around in shoals than fish in more varied habitats. Fish perceive simple rivers as safe places to be, so they spend more time swimming around in shoals than fish in more varied habitats. http://planetearth.nerc.ac.uk/multimedia/audio/fish-shoal.mp3 Mon, 29 Jun 2009 07:00:00 +0100 no 493 Natural Environment Research Council How understanding the movement of sediments in the Dee Estuary helps the Airbus A380. The Dee Estuary in northwest England has been used as a shipping channel since the start of the industrial revolution. The Dee Estuary in northwest England has been used as a shipping channel since the start of the industrial revolution. http://planetearth.nerc.ac.uk/multimedia/audio/sediment.mp3 Mon, 22 Jun 2009 09:27:36 +0100 no 365 Natural Environment Research Council Using genetics to help preserve the world's stocks of fish. The international fishing industry has taken big steps in recent years towards improving the sustainability of fish stocks. Despite this, illegal, unregulated and unreported fishing is still a major problem in many areas of the world's oceans. The international fishing industry has taken big steps in recent years towards improving the sustainability of fish stocks. Despite this, illegal, unregulated and unreported fishing is still a major problem in many areas of the world's oceans. http://planetearth.nerc.ac.uk/multimedia/audio/illegal-fishing.mp3 Tue, 16 Jun 2009 00:00:00 +0100 no 464 Natural Environment Research Council A look at how tiny single-celled plants called phytoplankton support the entire marine food chain. Phytoplankton are tiny single-celled plants found throughout the world's oceans. Although they're small, they're crucial, because they provide food for the rest of the marine food chain. Phytoplankton are tiny single-celled plants found throughout the world's oceans. Although they're small, they're crucial, because they provide food for the rest of the marine food chain. http://planetearth.nerc.ac.uk/multimedia/audio/livplankton.mp3 Mon, 08 Jun 2009 00:00:00 +0100 no 380 Natural Environment Research Council Viper's venom is more toxic to its favourite meal than other prey. Venom from different viper species is tailored to its favourite prey, new research says. Venom from different viper species is tailored to its favourite prey, new research says. http://planetearth.nerc.ac.uk/multimedia/audio/snakes.mp3 Fri, 29 May 2009 15:44:32 +0100 no 470 Natural Environment Research Council Venter plans to build a whole planet Earth gene database. Possibly one of the world's best known geneticists, Craig Venter, has visited scientists at the Plymouth Marine Laboratory on his Sorcerer II yacht. Possibly one of the world's best known geneticists, Craig Venter, has visited scientists at the Plymouth Marine Laboratory on his Sorcerer II yacht. http://planetearth.nerc.ac.uk/multimedia/audio/venter.mp3 Thu, 21 May 2009 16:41:56 +0100 no 564 Natural Environment Research Council British Geological Survey scientists describe how to predict when a volcano might erupt. Predicting when a volcano will blow has to be one of the holy grails of geology. Geologists have got much better at this than they used to be by constantly monitoring active volcanoes and studying ancient ones to figure out how they work. Predicting when a volcano will blow has to be one of the holy grails of geology. Geologists have got much better at this than they used to be by constantly monitoring active volcanoes and studying ancient ones to figure out how they work. http://planetearth.nerc.ac.uk/multimedia/audio/volcano.mp3 Mon, 18 May 2009 00:00:00 +0100 no 402 Natural Environment Research Council Thinner sea ice and less extensive ice cover in the Arctic is leading to changes in the region's biology. The polar regions are changing faster than anywhere else on Earth. Scientists now predict the Arctic will be ice-free over the summer in just 10 or 20 years' time. The question is, how will this affect the region's biology? The polar regions are changing faster than anywhere else on Earth. Scientists now predict the Arctic will be ice-free over the summer in just 10 or 20 years' time. The question is, how will this affect the region's biology? http://planetearth.nerc.ac.uk/multimedia/audio/arctic.mp3 Mon, 11 May 2009 00:00:00 +0100 no 457 Natural Environment Research Council Cryosat-2 will measure both land and sea ice thickness at the poles to monitor changes in ice cover. The poles are warming up faster than any other region on the planet. Arctic sea ice is both thinning and receding and Antarctic ice shelves are either disintegrating or are at risk of collapse. A recent study suggests human activity is to blame. The poles are warming up faster than any other region on the planet. Arctic sea ice is both thinning and receding and Antarctic ice shelves are either disintegrating or are at risk of collapse. A recent study suggests human activity is to blame. http://planetearth.nerc.ac.uk/multimedia/audio/cryosat.mp3 Tue, 05 May 2009 13:46:28 +0100 no 280 Natural Environment Research Council Researchers plan to use a new instrument to understand changes in the Arctic. Arctic sea ice reached a record low extent in summer 2007 and its thickness the following winter also decreased. Researchers are keen to figure out what's behind the melt and are concerned that climate change might be to blame. Arctic sea ice reached a record low extent in summer 2007 and its thickness the following winter also decreased. Researchers are keen to figure out what's behind the melt and are concerned that climate change might be to blame. http://planetearth.nerc.ac.uk/multimedia/audio/seaglider.mp3 Mon, 27 Apr 2009 00:00:00 +0100 no 354 Natural Environment Research Council Honeybees are in trouble. But many other bee species are also struggling. Bees are in big trouble: many species' populations are declining. With around a third of the food we eat coming from crops pollinated by insects and 90 per cent of the UK's wildflowers relying on insects for pollination, this is far from good news. Bees are in big trouble: many species' populations are declining. With around a third of the food we eat coming from crops pollinated by insects and 90 per cent of the UK's wildflowers relying on insects for pollination, this is far from good news. http://planetearth.nerc.ac.uk/multimedia/audio/bees.mp3 Tue, 21 Apr 2009 07:00:00 +0100 no 378 Natural Environment Research Council Seismologists can't yet predict when an earthquake will occur, but what's the next best thing? Earthquakes are a deadly natural hazard. Every week somewhere around the world, an earthquake occurs that's big enough to cause serious damage to people, roads and buildings. Earthquakes are a deadly natural hazard. Every week somewhere around the world, an earthquake occurs that's big enough to cause serious damage to people, roads and buildings. http://planetearth.nerc.ac.uk/multimedia/audio/earthquake.mp3 Tue, 14 Apr 2009 00:00:00 +0100 no 552 Natural Environment Research Council A look at the potential health risks from pathogens after flood events. As the climate changes and the risk of extreme flooding increases, more and more of us could be exposed to pathogens when excess floodwater meets contaminated soil. As the climate changes and the risk of extreme flooding increases, more and more of us could be exposed to pathogens when excess floodwater meets contaminated soil. http://planetearth.nerc.ac.uk/multimedia/audio/underground.mp3 Tue, 07 Apr 2009 16:17:41 +0100 no 328 Natural Environment Research Council The UK's deepest-diving robot submarine returns from its first mission to the deep Atlantic Ocean. Able to dive to a depth of 6000 metres, Autosub 6000 allows scientists to access more than 90 per cent of the Earth's ocean floors. Science writer and broadcaster Richard Hollingham finds out more about what's in store for this robot submarine. Able to dive to a depth of 6000 metres, Autosub 6000 allows scientists to access more than 90 per cent of the Earth's ocean floors. Science writer and broadcaster Richard Hollingham finds out more about what's in store for this robot submarine. http://planetearth.nerc.ac.uk/multimedia/audio/autosub6000.mp3 Mon, 30 Mar 2009 07:00:00 +0100 no 407 Natural Environment Research Council Climate change could affect global rainfall patterns, leading to problems with crop yields. Today at the Sustainable Development UK 09 conference in London, the UK government's chief scientific advisor, Professor John Beddington, predicts a "perfect storm" of food, energy and water shortages by 2030. Today at the Sustainable Development UK 09 conference in London, the UK government's chief scientific advisor, Professor John Beddington, predicts a "perfect storm" of food, energy and water shortages by 2030. http://planetearth.nerc.ac.uk/multimedia/audio/cropsandclimate.mp3 Thu, 19 Mar 2009 00:00:00 GMT no 356 Natural Environment Research Council Horses were domesticated 1000 years earlier than previously thought. Horses were domesticated a thousand years earlier than previously thought, according to a team of researchers. Horses were domesticated a thousand years earlier than previously thought, according to a team of researchers. http://planetearth.nerc.ac.uk/multimedia/audio/horses.mp3 Fri, 06 Mar 2009 13:19:44 GMT no 566 Natural Environment Research Council The 'Formula One of spacececraft' is due to launch. In March, the European Space Agency launches what has been dubbed 'the Formula One of spacecraft'. The Earth observation satellite's sleek design is essential because its orbit is so low it will literally skim the top of the atmosphere. In March, the European Space Agency launches what has been dubbed 'the Formula One of spacecraft'. The Earth observation satellite's sleek design is essential because its orbit is so low it will literally skim the top of the atmosphere. http://planetearth.nerc.ac.uk/multimedia/audio/goce.mp3 Tue, 03 Mar 2009 14:53:33 GMT no 410 Natural Environment Research Council Scientists record sounds under water to understand the effect of sea turbines on marine animals. Most people wouldn't dispute that generating energy from wave or tidal power is good for the environment. But what is the impact of underwater devices used to harness energy on marine animals like whales, dolphins and fish? Most people wouldn't dispute that generating energy from wave or tidal power is good for the environment. But what is the impact of underwater devices used to harness energy on marine animals like whales, dolphins and fish? http://planetearth.nerc.ac.uk/multimedia/audio/renewables.mp3 Mon, 23 Feb 2009 07:00:00 GMT no 422 Natural Environment Research Council How do cormorants manage to stay warm in freezing cold water when their feathers get soaking wet? Cormorants drying their wings in the sun are a common sight along many rivers and coasts around the world. Although they feed underwater, they have partially wettable feathers. Science writer and broadcaster Sue Nelson finds out why. Cormorants drying their wings in the sun are a common sight along many rivers and coasts around the world. Although they feed underwater, they have partially wettable feathers. Science writer and broadcaster Sue Nelson finds out why. http://planetearth.nerc.ac.uk/multimedia/audio/cormorants.mp3 Mon, 16 Feb 2009 07:00:00 GMT no 361 Natural Environment Research Council At school we're taught that soils absorb water. But what happens when they don't? At school we're taught that soils absorb water. But what we're not told is that some behave unexpectedly and repel water. This seemingly minor detail can cause major problems, as science writer and broadcaster Richard Hollingham finds out. At school we're taught that soils absorb water. But what we're not told is that some behave unexpectedly and repel water. This seemingly minor detail can cause major problems, as science writer and broadcaster Richard Hollingham finds out. http://planetearth.nerc.ac.uk/multimedia/audio/soilandwater.mp3 Tue, 10 Feb 2009 16:17:42 GMT no 503 Natural Environment Research Council Reed warblers and cuckoos have evolved many strategies to out-compete each other. Reed warblers are in a constant arms race with cuckoos. Professor Nick Davies from the University of Cambridge tells science writer and broadcaster Sue Nelson about the strategies both species use to out-compete each other. Reed warblers are in a constant arms race with cuckoos. Professor Nick Davies from the University of Cambridge tells science writer and broadcaster Sue Nelson about the strategies both species use to out-compete each other. http://planetearth.nerc.ac.uk/multimedia/audio/cuckoo.mp3 Mon, 02 Feb 2009 07:00:00 GMT no 437 Natural Environment Research Council How Antarctic ice cores give us clues about Earth's future climate. Science writer and broadcaster Richard Hollingham meets Dr Robert Mulvaney at the British Antarctic Survey, who explains how collecting ice cores from all over Antarctica gives scientists a unique window into the Earth's past climate. Science writer and broadcaster Richard Hollingham meets Dr Robert Mulvaney at the British Antarctic Survey, who explains how collecting ice cores from all over Antarctica gives scientists a unique window into the Earth's past climate. http://planetearth.nerc.ac.uk/multimedia/audio/icecores.mp3 Mon, 26 Jan 2009 07:00:00 GMT no 528 Natural Environment Research Council Researchers talk about a novel approach to tracking jellyfish blooms in the Irish Sea. Graeme Hays and Vicky Hobson talk to science writer and broadcaster Richard Hollingham about the novel approach they are using to track jellyfish blooms in the Irish Sea. Graeme Hays and Vicky Hobson talk to science writer and broadcaster Richard Hollingham about the novel approach they are using to track jellyfish blooms in the Irish Sea. http://planetearth.nerc.ac.uk/multimedia/audio/jellyfish.mp3 Mon, 19 Jan 2009 07:00:00 GMT no 500 Natural Environment Research Council Success of Icelandic black-tailed godwits down to early migration as well as early-nesting parents. At the end of summer, young Icelandic black-tailed godwits leave the Arctic to migrate to western Europe in search of food and a milder climate. The sooner they manage the trip, the more likely they are to be successful as adults. At the end of summer, young Icelandic black-tailed godwits leave the Arctic to migrate to western Europe in search of food and a milder climate. The sooner they manage the trip, the more likely they are to be successful as adults. http://planetearth.nerc.ac.uk/multimedia/audio/godwits.mp3 Mon, 12 Jan 2009 07:00:00 GMT no 399 Natural Environment Research Council Looking at how oceans and the life within them will fare in more acidic conditions. Around half of the carbon dioxide we've pumped into the atmosphere so far has been absorbed by the oceans. While at first this might sound like good news, one side effect is that sea water is becoming acidic, which is bad news if you live in it. Around half of the carbon dioxide we've pumped into the atmosphere so far has been absorbed by the oceans. While at first this might sound like good news, one side effect is that sea water is becoming acidic, which is bad news if you live in it. http://planetearth.nerc.ac.uk/multimedia/audio/acidocean.mp3 Mon, 05 Jan 2009 12:17:35 GMT no 490 Natural Environment Research Council One in three upset stomachs in Britain could be down to contaminated tap water. One in three upset stomachs in Britain, the US and other developed countries could be down to contaminated tap water, according to Professor Alistair Grant from the University of East Anglia. One in three upset stomachs in Britain, the US and other developed countries could be down to contaminated tap water, according to Professor Alistair Grant from the University of East Anglia. http://planetearth.nerc.ac.uk/multimedia/audio/drinkingwater.mp3 Fri, 19 Dec 2008 16:29:38 GMT no 234 Natural Environment Research Council Melting permafrost could be adding to the climate change problem. In a warming climate permafrost in northern latitudes is at risk of losing its vast stores of carbon. As it melts, it could increase atmospheric carbon dioxide levels substantially. In a warming climate permafrost in northern latitudes is at risk of losing its vast stores of carbon. As it melts, it could increase atmospheric carbon dioxide levels substantially. http://planetearth.nerc.ac.uk/multimedia/audio/peat.mp3 Wed, 10 Dec 2008 09:31:48 GMT no 460