In this episode of Planet A, Professor Michael E. Mann – a leading figure in climate research and a vocal participant in public discourse on global warming – brings his insights into what he describes as the “New Climate War”.

He outlines how powerful interests, including fossil fuel industries and certain political forces, have long obstructed substantial climate action to safeguard their profits. These actors have mastered the art of polluting public discourse with misinformation.

Mann paints a dystopian picture of what the United States—and by extension, the planet—could face if the forces opposing climate action succeed in their agendas.

In spite of this, Mann maintains his stance as a stubborn optimist. He calls on listeners to reject apathy and engage in collective actions that push for substantial and systemic changes in environmental policy and practice.

In this episode of Planet A, the ‘father’ of the Svalbard Global Seed Vault, Cary Fowler, takes us on an extraordinary journey through his mission to safeguard the world’s agricultural heritage. Placed deep in the Arctic, the Seed Vault stands as a global insurance, protecting millions of seed samples from the growing threats of climate change.

Dr. Fowler shares his thoughts on the connection between food security and climate change, highlighting the importance of increasing diversity in crops to ensure their resilience against the changing climate. A problem which might be eased by what Dr. Fowler calls ‘Adapted Crops and Soils’.

Dive into his perspective, including both optimism and caution, as he acknowledges the gravity of our planetary crisis yet reveals promising advancements that could pave the way to a hopeful, food-secure future.

In this episode of Planet A, Dan Jørgensen sits down with EU Commissioner for Climate Action, Wopke Hoekstra, to explore the central role he plays in shaping the European Union’s approach to reducing emissions. Transitioning from a career in the energy sector to a key climate policy leader, Hoekstra offers unique insights into the EU’s climate targets and strategies.

They discuss the EU’s own emission targets as well as its role as a global influencer in climate action. Hoekstra emphasizes the importance of a just transition that balances both environmental sustainability and economic growth, addressing concerns about job transitions and public dissent.

He stresses that environmental policy must consider the livelihoods and futures of those it impacts, underscoring the necessity of policies that safeguard livelihoods and open doors to new opportunities.

Tune in for an insightful exploration of the EU’s climate strategies and the work of an EU Commissioner in driving global climate action.