It’s hard to figure out the economic value of a wild bat or any other part of the natural world, but some scientists argue that this kind of calculation could help protect our environment.
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Sep 2
Stopping the science that could stop the world
When scientists write their own rules for life, how do they know what could go wrong before it’s too late? This is the final episode of our new three-part series, Life from Scratch. Guests: Kate Adamala, associate professor at the University of Minnesota; David Relman, professor ... Show More
36m 12s
Aug 31
A breakthrough in synthetic life
Synthetic biologist Kate Adamala has been making major headlines as her lab creates cells that feed, divide, and grow — all from nonliving parts. It may sound like sci-fi, but Kate believes that these “not quite alive” cells are key to a renewable future. This is the second episo ... Show More
34m 16s
Jan 2016
The Big Data of Nature
As we hear over and over again, environmental issues are mounting, and the stakes are huge. So how might big data be used to tackle the issues of sustainability, climate change, habitat loss, and species extinction? And even more than that, can it offer us new ways of engaging in ... Show More
36m 3s
May 2024
How to Protect Wildlife without Leaving Home
Whether you have a large yard or a tiny planter, there are ways to use your outdoor space to protect wildlife. Senior news reporter Meghan Bartels takes us through what you can do, or stop doing, to make your yard and home friendlier to local critters.
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7m 54s
Mar 2022
“Apples, Oranges and Dinosaurs”: The Values of Nature
<p>In this episode, we catch up with the work of IPBES experts on the values of nature. Ahead of the publication of the IPBES Values Assessment in July 2022, we explore what those values are, why we should bother trying to understand them, and how we can pull all these different ... Show More
32m 24s
Apr 2025
Ghosts in the Green Machine
<p>In honor of our Earth, on her day, we have two stories about the overlooked, ignored, and neglected parts of nature. In the first half, we learn about an epic battle that is raging across the globe every day, every moment. It's happening in the ocean, and your very life depend ... Show More
33m 19s