UofG researchers showcased in new SAGES podcast series
Published: 22 January 2025
University of Glasgow researchers are playing a key role in a new podcast series launched by the Scottish Alliance for Geoscience, Environment and Society (SAGES).
University of Glasgow researchers are playing a key role in a new podcast series launched by the Scottish Alliance for Geoscience, Environment and Society (SAGES).
Two episodes of the SAGES Climate Science Podcast, launched today and supported by the Scottish Government's Climate Engagement Fund 2024/2025, feature interviews with researchers from the School of Geographical & Earth Sciences.
Hosted by award-winning climate activist and environmental scientist Laura Young, the podcast features 11 episodes tackling a wide range of topics, from blue carbon and peatlands to flooding, technology, and environmental justice. The series aims to provide accurate scientific information, celebrate Scotland’s contributions to global climate science, and inspire action toward a sustainable future.
Dr Rhian Thomas is featured in episode four of the podcast, which is focused on flooding. Alongside Andrew Tabas of Heriot-Watt University and Dr Irena Connon of the University of Stirling, Dr Thomas delves into Scotland’s changing waterscape, addressing natural flood management, the human dimensions of environmental risks, and the public health impacts of flooding.
Professor Larissa Naylor and Freya Muir contribute to episode six, which looks at Scotland’s coasts. From Montrose to Orkney, the episode unpacks coastal erosion, storms, and nature-based solutions for adapting to these dynamic environments.
https://youtube.com/shorts/rqao-fTi1FE
Dr Thomas said: “It was a great opportunity to be part of the SAGES Climate Science Podcast, highlighting some of the research currently taking place in the broad field of climate science.
“The episode I contributed to was focused on flooding issues and the research I've most recently been involved in deals specifically with the public health impacts of fluvial flooding in Scotland. This was a short-term science policy fellowship with CREW, the Centre of Expertise for Waters, to produce a policy brief that supported the development of Scotland's first Flood Resilience Strategy.
“Climate change is increasing our exposure to fluvial flooding in Scotland and this is negatively impacting our physical and mental health. The greatest health impacts in Scotland and the UK more widely, are seen for mental health. It's really key to understand what factors influence flood vulnerability so we can identify mechanisms to build public health resilience to flooding.”
https://youtube.com/shorts/rtgZs_zcHgA
Professor Larissa Naylor said: “I’m pleased to be part of the podcast alongside Freya to discuss some of the challenges that climate change is causing on Scotland’s coastline. Research projects like Dynamic Coast have brought those challenges into sharp focus and there is much work to be done in the years ahead to help the country adapt.
“Awareness-raising activities like the SAGES Climate Science Podcast are invaluable for reaching a wide range of people to help them gain a better understanding and appreciation of the climate change risks facing us all.”
https://youtube.com/shorts/NdRq9htOJd8
Freya Muir said: “Our episode focused on Scotland’s varied coast, the environments and landforms that border our homes, and the risks and impacts we’re facing and will continue to face as sea levels continue to rise and storms become more severe and frequent. We’re living in a serious time for coastal research with plenty of problems to solve, but it’s also an exciting and fast-moving time with resources such as petabytes of satellite observations, machine learning, and cloud-based data and tools to assist in that problem-solving.
"It was wonderful to be part of such a professionally produced series. I’m a firm believer in the importance of sharing our science stories with the general public, especially at a time when our climate and environments are changing so rapidly, and the video podcast format is a real game-changer for this.”
The SAGES Climate Science Podcast brings together some of Scotland’s most esteemed scientists and researchers, offering listeners a rich and diverse insight into pressing climate issues.
Under the direction of Professor Matteo Spagnolo, Director of SAGES, the podcast reflects Scotland's commitment to addressing climate change through collaborative research and public engagement. Professor Spagnolo's leadership has been instrumental in bringing together diverse scientific voices to inform and inspire action.
Acting Minister for Climate Action, Alasdair Allan said: “Public support for climate action is crucial if Scotland is to achieve net zero by 2045 and become more climate resilient.
“That’s why we have delivered over £800k in funding for community-based climate engagement projects since 2023 – including support for this new podcast series from the Scottish Alliance for Geoscience, Environment and Society.
“The series will help listeners build a better understanding of some of the complex issues around climate change and provide insight into what action people can take to help cut emissions and adapt to the impacts of climate change.”
Laura Young, Presenter of the SAGES Climate Science Podcast, said: “Our goal with the SAGES Climate Science Podcast is to cut through the noise of misinformation and bring science to the forefront. Scotland is home to world-leading research and incredible scientists working on solutions to the climate crisis. This podcast connects the public to their work, providing clarity and inspiration at a time when action is more important than ever.”
First published: 22 January 2025