University of St Andrews Launches SAGES Climate Science Podcast to Lead Global Climate Dialogue

Researchers from the University of St Andrews are playing a key role in a new climate science podcast launched by the Scottish Alliance for Geoscience, Environment and Society (SAGES) this week. 

Supported by the Scottish Government’s Climate Engagement Fund 2024/2025, the series presents engaging discussions on climate science, covering a broad range of topics including blue carbon, peatlands, flooding, technology, and environmental justice. 

The SAGES Climate Science Podcast features 11 episodes designed to provide accurate scientific information, celebrate Scotland’s significant contributions to global climate science, and inspire action for a sustainable future. All episodes are available on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, Amazon Music, and YouTube via this link.

Dr TJ Young, a lecturer in Physical Geography and Remote Sensing at the School of Geography and Sustainable Development, is featured in episode three, where he discusses the cryosphere – the frozen parts of Earth. He said: “This podcast provided a brilliant opportunity to virtually welcome the public into our department, and to share our latest findings on some of the most pressing topics in climate science.  

“From glaciers in Antarctica holding vast reserves of water to carbon stored in Scotland’s peatlands, we wanted to bridge the gap between global scientific discoveries and their local impacts. These seemingly distant issues are deeply relevant to our everyday lives, and importantly, we hope to inspire those in Scotland and beyond in embracing the challenges that climate change brings with renewed hope and resilience.” 

Dr Mary Abed Al Ahad, an associate lecturer in the School of Geography and Sustainable Development, is featured in episode 10, where she discusses how climate change exacerbates social inequalities. She said: “This podcast series opened the door for researchers to communicate and discuss their research in a creative way to the public, spreading awareness about various factors related to climate change and opening the chance for collaborative work between the researchers themselves across several institutions in Scotland.” 

Hosted by award-winning climate activist and environmental scientist Laura Young, the podcast offers listeners valuable insights into Scotland’s leadership in climate science drawing from the SAGES collaborative network of leading academic institutions, working to advance geoscience and environmental research. By fostering interdisciplinary projects and connecting researchers with policymakers and the public, SAGES plays a key role in addressing global environmental challenges.   

Professor Bill Austin, who was in Svalbard during the launch dates attending a Horizon Europe workshop focused on polar biodiversity and blue carbon dynamics, is featured in episode 11. He explores the ocean’s crucial role in regulating the earth’s climate and Scotland’s leadership in blue carbon research. He said: “As chair of the Scottish Blue Carbon Forum, I am honoured to have contributed to this podcast series and to see the sustained and continued global leadership for which Scotland strives through its open and inclusive dialogue on climate change.” 

Under the direction of Professor Matteo Spagnolo, Director of SAGES, the podcast embodies Scotland’s commitment to addressing climate change through collaborative research and public engagement. Professor Spagnolo’s leadership has played a crucial role in bringing together diverse scientific voices to both inform and inspire action. 

Alasdair Allan, Acting Minister for Climate Action, emphasized the importance of public engagement in achieving climate goals and 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.” 

This SAGES Climate Science Podcast series offers listeners the opportunity to dive deep into the latest climate science, gain a better understanding of global challenges, and explore how they can contribute to shaping a more sustainable future.