Shows
Behind the MindBreaking Down Barriers: The Case for Off-Site Building with Philip RussellIn this podcast episode, Sean interviews Philip Russell, a seasoned professional with a rich background in the construction and property development industry. Philip shares his unique journey, starting from his humble beginnings in a small village near Hereford, where he learned the building trade from his uncle at a young age. Philip discusses the evolution of community dynamics, the challenges of modern business, and the importance of education that fosters critical thinking. The conversation delves into the current state of the UK construction industry, highlighting the need for innovation, particularly in off-site and modular building methods. Philip emphasizes the...2024-09-301h 32
Going GreenThe Heat is On: The Rising Threat of Heatwaves in the UKIn this enlightening episode of our video podcast, we dive deep into the pressing issue of heat waves and their alarming impact on the United Kingdom. With an eye-opening discussion inspired by recent warnings from MPs and the Environmental Audit Committee, we explore the potentially dire consequences of inaction in the face of increasing extreme heat events. We dissect a report indicating that up to 10,000 people a year could face fatal outcomes due to heatwaves if comprehensive measures are not taken. The economic repercussions are also staggering, with a potential cost of £60bn a year to the economy.2024-02-2031 min
EdUp MarCommEpisode 26 - Russell Brooks - CEO of Heriot-Watt OnlineOn this episode Philip speaks with Russell Brooks, CEO of Heriot-Watt Online part of Heriot-Watt University. Heriot-Watt University was established over 200 years ago and has enrolled tens of thousands of students in its long history. On the podcast Philip and Russell discuss some of the key ways in which the university has continued its success and what the future holds for the university and the education sector as a whole.2023-08-0424 min
Going GreenUrgency for Swift and Drastic Action on climateIn this episode will discuss the urgent need for swift and drastic action on climate change. We will explore the current state of the planet and the impact that human activities are having on our environment. We will also discuss the potential consequences of not taking action and the importance of taking action now. We discuss the UN's new ten actions to Everyone can help limit climate change. these range from the way we travel to the electricity we use, the food we eat, and the things we buy, we can make a difference.Finally, we will d...2023-03-2430 min
Going GreenPeat moss compost being bannedPhasing out the use of peat moss is considered a good thing for several reasons, mainly related to its environmental and ecological impacts. Here are some key reasons why reducing or eliminating the use of peat moss is beneficial:Preservation of carbon sinks: Peatlands, where peat moss grows, are vital carbon sinks, storing vast amounts of carbon over long periods. Extracting peat moss releases stored carbon into the atmosphere, contributing to climate change. Phasing out peat moss use helps reduce carbon emissions and mitigate climate change impacts.Biodiversity conservation: Peatlands are home to many unique...2023-03-1629 min
Going GreenHas the UK Power grid reached capacityThe UK power grid is facing challenges as more renewable energy sources come online because renewable sources such as wind and solar power are intermittent and can fluctuate in their output depending on the weather conditions. This means that there can be times when there is more renewable energy being generated than is needed, and other times when there is not enough renewable energy to meet the demand.To balance the electricity grid and ensure that there is always enough power to meet the demand, the National Grid has to rely on a variety of measures including:2023-03-1031 min
Going GreenThe Great tomato shortageWe are currently facing a tomato and Salad shortage. Now, this isn't something to really worry about because food shortages can occur for numerous reasons. Due to the Drought that happened last year in Europe causing poor harvests overseas, especially in Spain and north Africa, the UK has been particularly exposed to shortages because of supermarket contracts and high energy costs facing domestic suppliers.Additionally, Europe is facing a vegetable shortage for all the same reasons In summary, food shortages can result from a variety of factors, including weather and climate, pests and diseases, economic factors, p...2023-03-0330 min
Going GreenWhat impact Sewage discharge has on the EnvironmentWelcome to our podcast where we explore the critical issue of sewage discharge and its impact on the environment. Our host will take you on a journey to understand how sewage discharge affects the ecosystem and the health of the planet.Sewage discharge is a significant environmental issue that is often overlooked. Many of us are unaware of the magnitude of this problem and its impact on our waterways, wildlife, and the health of our communities. In this podcast, we will shed light on the issue and explore its many facets.We will discuss some...2023-02-2432 min
Going GreenThe Risks of Rising Sea LevelsSea levels have been rising over the past century due to global warming, and this trend is expected to continue in the coming decades.Rising sea levels can lead to a variety of negative consequences, including increased flooding and erosion, damage to property and infrastructure, and loss of habitat for plants and animals. In addition, coastal cities and communities are particularly vulnerable to the effects of more frequent and severe storms, which can be exacerbated by rising sea levels.It is important to note that the exact extent of the impact of rising sea levels...2023-02-1629 min
Going GreenDoes climate change cause earthquakesIn general, there is no significant impact of climate change on earthquakes that has been identified by scientists. However, they are not disregarding the possibility of a connection. As the Earth's average temperature increases, the melting of massive ice sheets leads to the transfer of billions of tons of water from land to the ocean, causing land masses to rise. This global change could result in seismic activity, but no such evidence has been observed yet. Earthquakes are caused by the movement and collision of tectonic plates beneath the Earth's surface. Climate change can, however, have indirect e...2023-02-0929 min
Going GreenAstroturf LobbyingAstroturfing is a deceptive practice of creating the appearance of a groundswell of support for a particular agenda by using fake or paid individuals to post positive comments, reviews, or testimonials in a coordinated manner. The aim is to manipulate public opinion by giving the impression that a large number of people hold a particular view when in reality, they are part of a coordinated effort by an interest group or organization. The term "astroturfing" is derived from the artificial turf used in sports stadiums, implying that the support being shown is not genuine.2023-02-0231 min
Going Greenis now the right time to buy an electric carWe are now another year (to 2030) closer to when petrol and diesel cars will stop being made in the UK perhaps now is the right time to buy an electric car?The debate over whether it is the right time to buy an electric car has been ongoing for a few years now. On one hand, electric cars offer a number of benefits over traditional gasoline-powered cars, including lower operating costs, zero emissions, and the potential to reduce dependence on fossil fuels. On the other hand, there are still some concerns about the limited range of electric...2023-01-2630 min
Going GreenMining into ExtinctionOne of the topics taught in GCSE chemistry is looking at the Earth's resources and looking in particular when metals are likely to run out the report they looked at was done in 2011 and suggested that current production levels when it was likely metals would run out. We thought it would be interesting to have a look 10 years on at how much of these metals are left now.So are we running out of metals, are we mining ourselves into extinction2023-01-2031 min
Going GreenThe No Snow ZoneSki resorts in the Alps are being forced to shut down due to a lack of snow because Europe there has no snowfall in the new year. Temperatures for January have reached an all-time high in a number of nations across Europe breaking record minimum winter temperatures in eight countries - and regional records in another three.Warsaw, Poland, saw 18.9C (66F) on Sunday while Bilbao, Spain, was 25.1C - more than 10C above average. so activists have called for faster action on climate change because there will be no ski season in the alps with global te...2023-01-1231 min
Going Greenclimate review 2022With the new year in sight, we thought it is good to go back over the course of the year and look at all the climate stories that happened. A lot has happened over the last year with 2022 beating several records. it has provisionally been the -on average- hottest year to date and as well as a decade of increasingly bad weather2022-12-2933 min
Going GreenDreaming of a White ChristmasA white Christmas is a Christmas celebration that is characterized by the presence of snow on the ground. An "official" white Christmas is defined by the Met Office as "one snowflake to be observed falling in the 24 hours of 25 December somewhere in the UK", but formerly the snow had to be observed at the Met Office building in London.However, Climate change has brought higher average temperatures over land and sea and this generally reduces the chances of a white Christmas. additionally, with the average yearly temperature rising, one might think that the chances are reduced however...2022-12-2231 min
Going GreenIs nuclear fusion the future of energyFusion power has the potential to be a major source of clean, safe, and abundant energy in the future. A new break though has been discovered by a team in America, the team managed to get more energy out from the enormous amount of energy that was required to start the fusion reaction. Fusion occurs when atomic nuclei combine to form a heavier nucleus, releasing a large amount of energy in the process. This is the same process that powers the sun and other stars. Unlike nuclear fission, which is the process used in current nuclear power plants, fusion...2022-12-1630 min
Going GreenEarthshot prize winners 2022This year Earthshot prize took place at Boston, USA. The Earthshot Prize was designed to find and grow the solutions that will repair our planet this decade. Each Winner of the 5 categories will get £1 million to regenerate the place we all call home in the next ten years. 2022-12-0933 min
Going GreenMake Black Friday, GREEN!Black Friday is a day of consumerism so why dont we make it green. We all know that the "throwaway culture" of Black Friday "is bad for the environment" and people should instead consider recycled products and think what they can do for the environment but is it really the consumers that are bad or is it the producers not making things green for the sake of profits2022-12-0530 min
Going Greenplant a tree in '23; plant one more in '24we should be updating the old rhyme Plant a tree in '73; plant one more in '74 to "plant a tree in '23; plant one more in '24 "National Tree Week starts Saturday the 27th which marks the annual winter tree planting season and welsh government is offering every household a free tree to collect from over 50 locations in Wales. So what's the point of why everyone should plant a tree in the year 2023, we could reduce the severity of global climate change by removing excess carbon from our atmosphere However Climate change is making trees bi...2022-11-2429 min
Going GreenThe Economic Impact of Climate ChangeThis year's COP has been about the Economic Impact of Climate Change on the world Economies we thought we go through some of the Economic challenges that countries are facing.Stunning revelations came out about how the host of COP 27, Egypt are Burning more Coal so that they can sell there Gas Imports to Europe for a profit, Short term Economic Gains have apparently out weighted the climate imperative. Now what they do with that money we shall wait to see, if they use it for green investment, no harm, no foul, right. unfortunately that is un...2022-11-1830 min
Going Greenwhat has happened at cop 27With COP 27 happening this week, we thought we should give a round up of what has happened.COP 27 is taking place at Sharm el-Sheikh, Egypt. UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres said in his opening speech "We are on the highway to climate hell, with our foot still on the accelerator"He also proposed Debt-for-losses swap as a way for developing countries to recover from climate disaster.Additionally Russia, Democratic Republic of Congo and Indonesia pull out of the Reforestation bill that was signed last year at COP 26.2022-11-1031 min
Going GreenGas Shortage, the Risk of Running OUT!This week Ofgem made a statement about how the UK could potentially run out of gas. Creating a shortage, and that in a emergency there could be a rolling power cut if the UK due to lack gas supplies had to turn off gas turbines that produce electricity, if we get a cold and server winter. The last time this happened was in the 1973 when the Gas supplies switched off for hours due to gas rationing and Electricity rationing was done as well.How did we get here, Russia stopped the gas flowing to Europe and so E...2022-10-0729 min
Going GreenTo Frack or not to Frack?Recently the UK Government halted the moratorium on Hydraulic fracturing, or fracking. leading to questions To Frack or not to Frack. Fracking is a technique for recovering gas and oil from shale rock. It involves drilling into the earth and directing a high-pressure mixture of water, sand and chemicals at a rock layer in order to release the gas inside. The injection of fluid at high pressure into the rock can cause earth tremors - small movements in the earth's surface. The problems with fracking is that the gas is hard to extract. The total amount of gas produced...2022-09-2929 min
Going GreenFive burning climate issues for the 2022 UN general assemblyWith the 2022 UN general assembly taking place this week, we thought it would be good to go through the Five burning climate issues that was identified by the Secretary-general António GuterresThese five burning climate issues are;5. Curbing windfall profits from fossil fuel companies4. Championing more clean energy and the green transition3. Funding for the world’s most climate-vulnerable countries2. Keeping global warming below 1.5C1. Creating a legal obligation for countries to protect there own people from climate harm2022-09-2330 min
Going GreenThe Late Queen's environmental legacyWith the Death of late Queen Elizabeth II, King Charles III is the new king of Great Britain and northern Ireland. The Late Queen left a quite a Green Legacy, She was quite frugal and kept a simple diet of local produce and meat that had low food miles. Last year, she expressed her irritation with climate change inaction ahead of the Cop26 conference. unlike the late Queen, King Charles III, As Prince, was well known for his views on climate change, and for many years before this was popular and a thing, he was beating the drum about t...2022-09-1530 min
The Deep DiveEpisode 121: White Christian Nationalism and American Democracy w/ Philip S. Gorski & Samuel L. PerryPhilip spends time with the authors of The Flag + The Cross, Philip S. Gorski & Samuel L. Perry. In their conversation they trace the origins of white Christian nationalism, how it manifests in the American cultural zeitgeist and what it means for the nations democracy.
The Drop – The segment of the show where Philip and his guest share tasty morsels of intellectual goodness and creative musings.
Philip’s Drop:
For All Mankind (Apple TV)
Philip Gorskis’s Drop:
Jesus and John Wayne – Kristin Kobes Du Mez
Samuel Perry’s Drop:
The Bible...2022-09-1543 min
Going GreenNew Government, Old Climate TargetsWe would like to Congratulate @GrahamStuartMP who has been appointed Minister for Climate In Liz Truss's New Government, But the same old Climate challenges and targets still remain. So we thought about going through what he should be focusing on and what his priorities should be for the next few years.The list is quite a long one, but a lot of things are already set in motion, such as 7,000 hectares of new trees are being planted each year, but the problem for Graham Stuart MP is finding places to put these trees for example2022-09-0831 min
Going Greenhow does the energy price cap workLast Friday Ofgem (the UK energy regulator) Announced the increase the energy price cap of both Gas and Electricity from 7p to 15p and 28p to 52p respectfully on a Standard variable tariff and the Daily standing charges of both types of energy are increasing by 1pThis is the MAXIMUM an Energy company can charge on a Standard variable tariff. But the energy price cap for other tariff are being changed as well (So consult your bill from your energy company to see what tariff you are on!) This is for numerous reasons such as the...2022-09-0133 min
Going GreenWhy carbon offsets are worse than you thinkA carbon offset broadly refers to a reduction in Greenhouse Gas emissions – or an increase in carbon storage (e.g., through land restoration or the planting of trees) – that is used to compensate for emissions that occur elsewhere.For a Carbon offset to work, we first need to measure and establish how much greenhouse gas emissions that you emit personally or on a organisational level. Once steps have been taken to reduce these, you are then allowed to pay money to offset any emissions that you cannot reduce. for doing this you receive a Credit/coin/certificate that you...2022-08-2631 min
Going GreenAre We Going to Run Out of WaterSince Water is 2/3 of our planet, its hard to imagine that we could ever run out however only 3% of that water is fresh meaning vast majority of it is inaccessible for human use.So are we going to run out of water? As a result, water scarcity is a pressing and important issue for much of the global population and with all the droughts that are happening around the world, they're reducing the amount of fresh water available for everyoneThe United Nations sees water scarcity as “scarcity in availability due to the physical shortage, or sca...2022-08-1930 min
Going GreenThe Direct Impacts of DroughtAs the next wave of heat is hitting Europe, Drought are being declared all over and we are feeling the impact , directly through TUB's (AKA hosepipe bans) or indirectly like potential winter food shortages To understand how a drought can cause food shortages we need to an analogy as falling row of dominoes. Now imagine if the first domino might be farmers’ corn crops dying. The second domino might be that the farmers would not have money to buy a new tractor from the dealer in town. The dealer would then lose money, which would be the third domino. If...2022-08-1231 min
Going GreenThe Four Horsemen of Climate ChangeA new report from the Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences (PNAS) has sent press in panic with doom and gloom forecasts. the report talks about the “four horsemen” of climate change with new names such as famine and undernutrition, extreme weather events, conflict, and vector-borne diseases. According to the international team of researchers, they propose need for a new research agenda to look into bad-to-worst-case scenarios ranging from a loss of 10% of the global population to eventual human extinction. (SCARY STUFF) By analysing the mechanisms for these extreme consequences, the international team want to help galvanize action, impr...2022-08-0430 min
Going GreenWater's Worth SavingOver the course of this week, water companies published their drought plans in an effort to say that "water is worth saving" but that there is no need to panic over water scarcity. because most companies need to do this year since its required by law every five years to produce and publish a drought plan, and with the ongoing warm weather in much of the country follows the driest winter and spring since the 1970s, these drought plans have made it into the news. then on Tuesday 26 of July, the Environment Agency convened the National Drought Group. T...2022-07-2830 min
Going GreenIs the UK prepared for more tropical nights?So we survived the heatwave. For the first time ever the UK managed above 40°C in many parts, and we experience many tropical nights (nights that are above 20°C) but Homes in UK not designed for the heat. So what action can be taken, What can be done about new homes being builtWe had wildfires burning out homes. 60 properties damaged in the UK with 41of those properties destroyed in fires in London. The record is now held at Coningsby in eastern England at 40.3°, a record the town probably doesn't want. The trains couldn't cope becaus...2022-07-2130 min
Going GreenWill heat waves occur more oftenAcross the globe, countries such as Japan, Italy, Norway, Iran and Finland are breaking heat records as a swing of heat waves makes life very difficult. One question people keep asking is are they occuring more often? Lets start to answer that by stating what is a heat wave. simply put it is a system of high atmospheric pressure moves into an area and lasts two or more days. Climate change is making these occur more often and increasing the intensity of these high pressure systems changing the local climate in many places. Causing Droughts and wild fir...2022-07-1430 min
Going GreenWho should set the climate targetsWho should set the climate targets? Should it be, the scientists, the people, the governments? Philip and Paul open this can of worms and try to decide which is best.Climate targets are the limits that scientists and policymakers have set in plans to combat climate change. These targets can take different forms, from goals for limiting the Earth’s warming to hard caps on greenhouse gas emissions, and but they can be set really by anyone, however they should follow a plan.#climatechange #podcast #climatechangeawareness2022-07-0730 min
Going GreenThe UK has a water scarcity problemThe UK has a problem, its known as water scarcity. A survey of 2,000 Brits revealing that water consumption is low down on the priority agenda for environmental concerns, while Sir James Bevan chief of the Environment agency warns that the Lack of water presents ‘existential’ threat to our climate will be felt for decades if we dont do something about it. This Summer, UK water companies have joined forces again to launch Water’s Worth Saving,(https://watersworthsaving.org.uk/) a national campaign encouraging the public to make every drop count this summer.2022-07-0130 min
Going GreenThe consequence’s of doing nothingEverything is so bad, the climate change is causing fires and floods and what the point of doing anything. If I turn down the heating a bit, if I use an electric car - how's that going to change anything?The honest answer is if I do all these changes it won't change anything but what are the consequences of doing nothing? Doing nothing isn't an option. Doing nothing will cost far more than doing something. Russia's special operation on Ukraine is devastating for the country and having efects on...2022-06-2330 min
Going GreenMoving to a solar punk world to stop climate changeWhat is solar punk? Putting solar panels on the roof is not solar punk, It’s being one with nature It’s a different way of thinking. It’s not where they were made from, but how to make them even greener and cleaner. Using grey water, creating new environments. Using some out of the box thinking. Why are our wind turbines not made of wood?. Why not float them above the houses. What not live where the resources are rather than moving the resources. Data centre running off solar energy. Build a data centre in Iceland. Make a tropic...2022-06-1630 min
Going GreenWhat can be done to prevent littering?The long weekend in the UK to celebrate the Queens Platinum Jubilee was truly wonderous. There were street parties, parades, events put on up and down the country. Even my little town did its bit with a funfair, a stage and live band in the park and after the beacon had been lit, fireworks to finish. But as we walked away the field was littered with rubbish. Bottles, plastic cups, the remains of half eaten food - just abandoned on the field. The bins were no better. There were full to over flowing many times over. Earlier in the...2022-06-1030 min
Going GreenIs it worth having solar panels now?There are loads of companies willing to sell solar panels to home owners, but with no feed in tariff does it make sense to install panels on the roof. The costs of electricity and gas are soaring so perhaps any difference will be worthwhile. The cost of panels has dropped over the years but is now rising again. The power of the panels has increased. So does it make sense to install panels?Would you do better to invest in air source heating or another technology. Solar water works really well and we h...2022-06-0329 min
Going GreenClimate 'Doomism', What difference am I making?It appears that we are not doing enough so should we just give up.Some countries won't play, others make empty promises.I try to do my bit but nobody else does so what is the point?It won't make much difference to me - I'm old it's someone else's problem.The kids talk all about doing this and that, but they still use loads of power on their phones and computers wasting more than they are saving.The world is going to pot and I can't do anything about it.Little...2022-05-2831 min
Going GreenThe Green Hydrogen RevolutionWith fuel prices soaring, WE need a new fuel source, WE need a Green Hydrogen Revolution. Electrification cannot get us to net zero. So many things require natural gas; fertilisers, Plastics, and other essential chemicals. But we can replace Natural gas with Hydrogen. 8 months ago we talked about the Many colours of Hydrogen, and since then the Government has formed a Hydrogen working group, a group that is trying to Accelerate the Green Hydrogen Revolution. Their latest report, by RENEWABLE UK states that this Green Hydrogen Revolution will "solve the challenge of integrating renewables into our ene...2022-05-2030 min
Going GreenCan we avoid 1.5C ?A few days ago the UK Met Office researchers said that there's now around a fifty-fifty chance that the worlds climate will warm by more than 1.5C over the next five years. Under the Paris climate agreement, which committed the world to keeping the rise in global temperatures well below 2C while pursuing efforts keep them under 1.5C. The UK and Egypt as part of their role as president of COP brought more than 40 countries together this week to drive implementation of countries climate commitments. However from COP26 we know some countries commitments are weak, like Australia's. Billionaire Mike...2022-05-1229 min
Going GreenCould we geoengineer our way out of climate changeAs international efforts to reduce greenhouse gas emissions stall, schemes to slow global warming using fantastical technologies once dismissed as a sideshow are getting serious consideration“I have seen all kinds of proposals,” said James Fleming, author of “Fixing the Sky: The Checkered History of Weather and Climate Control” and a member of the National Academy geo-engineering committee.“People are getting more and more desperate about climate change,” he said. “I think it is quite probable we will get the OK to do this.”So what are these ideas:Aerosol injection, Spraying aerosols...2022-05-0630 min
Talk ArtPhilip SallonNew Talk Art!!! We meet London icon PHILIP SALLON at his home in St John's Wood!!! A legendary British club promoter, event organiser, socialite, style innovator, impresario, and clothing designer. He was born in London, England where he still lives and works today in his 70th year. He is particularly known for being a prominent member of the Punk sub-cultural and New Romantic pop cultural movements during the 1970s and 1980s.We discuss how he witnessed the birth of Punk, his friendship with Vivienne Westwood, the Blitz Kids and Boy George, more than 5 decades of his...2022-04-291h 31
Going GreenThe race to the electric carThe world is racing towards an electric vehicle (EV) rebirth because of issues ranging from environmental concerns to the high fluctuating oil prices that continue to push consumers toward alternatives to combustion engines. Today’s Electric Cars, however, is beyond anything nineteenth century drivers could imagine. From intelligent driving to proactive service and remote vehicle access, these new electrics cars can offer the safety and convenience today’s consumers crave. To push drivers toward “plugging in,” however, automakers must better educate them, as well as offer a uniquely “connected” driving experience. Equally important, they must embrace innovative business model...2022-04-2831 min
Going Green"Invest in our planet" Earth day 2022Last earth day, We decided to do something for the environment! but we though we could do more than just do our bit of recycling, because MORE needs to be done, so we set our sights on championing new Green idea, and how to get more people doing more green things, because global action is required NOW! This year, Earth Day 2022 calls on everyone to divest from unsustainable investments, and support eco-conscious brands and products to help send a clear message to corporations that consumers mean business.2022-04-2230 min
Going GreenEnvironmental ActivismThis week sparked a new wave of Environmental activism. The Group's idea is that, you switch off all of your electrical appliances, lights, or switch off at the breakers for 10 minutes, this effectively creates a 10 minute boycott of the privatised portions of our power supply, losing them up to an estimated £9m in revenue. this campaign is called the #bigpoweroff It happened on the 10th of April and is going to happen on the 16th of April at 7pm. this happened in Spain in 2019 and managed to cause lot of brown out leaving the electricity companies offer millions in c...2022-04-1429 min
Going GreenMitigating the effect of climate changeThe IPCC Report came out a few days ago about mitigating the effects of climate change. The IPCC third report looks at over the 2010 - 2020 period and makes projections of what needs to be done to prevent global warming and to limit the climate to 1.5 degrees of warming. In the last decade the world has managed to curb some critical items. CO2 emissions rose 54% from the millennium. Last 10 years only a 24% increase. So have managed to reduce the real amount of emissions by a third Between 2000 -2010 worldwide it was proposed that the number of coal plants to be...2022-04-0729 min
Going GreenIs this the right time to buy green?tomorrow (1st of April) There will be No vat on energy saving materials such as solar panel installation, heat pumps it the UK. So in this episode we answer is this the right time to invest in renewable energy for your home! But beware the small print - this new scheme only covers new systems, not so much addons to current ones!There are new types of solar panels coming to the market, that are both solar thermal and photovoltaic. These keep the panels cooler in summer and increase the efficiency. With the price of Gas go...2022-03-3129 min
Going GreenGo Green for the QueenIn this Jubilee Year the Queen started Queens Green Canopy which is to Plant a tree for the Jubilee during the months Oct '21 - Mar 22' and then Oct '22 - Mar '23 Tree planting seasonsThe Jubilee started 2nd February but major Celebrations take place from 2nd June with Street parties and other celebrationsIve seen a few jubileesSilver Jubilee 1977 at Uni studying for examsGolden Jubilee 2002Diamond Jubilee 2012Platinum Jubilee 2022 6th Febwhereas Paul has only seen from the millennium.2022-03-2429 min
Going GreenIPCC 2022 Report on Climate Impacts, Adaptation and VulnerabilityIn February the IPCC release their sixth report about how in the year 2022 how the Climate Impacts, Adaptation and Vulnerability of the worldtheir was 6 Big Findings from the IPCC 2022 Report which we discuss in this podcast1. Climate impacts are already more widespread and severe than expected.2. We are locked into even worse impacts from climate change in the near-term. 3. Risks will escalate quickly with higher temperatures, often causing irreversible impacts of climate change.4. Inequity, conflict and development challenges heighten vulnerability to climate risks. 5. Adaptation is crucial. Feasible solutions already exist, but...2022-03-1730 min
Going GreenSaying "No" to Russian GasAt Cop 26 all countries agreed to make changes to phase out fossils fuel and to say no to gas and oil, but Putin with his invasion in Ukraine has put a stop to this. simply saying No to Russian Gas is not a big problem in the the UK and USA due to only using a small amount of Russian gas however some of Europe countries are using a huge amount of gas there is a significant problem. The EU gets roughly 40% of its gas from Russia: According to figure from research group Transport & Environment, this dependence costs around $118...2022-03-1031 min
Going GreenThe Changing attitudes to Climate ChangeWhen COP26 Happened in October, a survey to place asking questions about there attitudes climate change, this question has been asked for the last few years and we can see how it is changing over time. Attitudes have been changing due to more education about climate change. In this podcast about how attitudes have changed about climate change, we explore how the use of simple messaging can change people attitudes and re-education of the population is having a large impact on climate change.2022-03-0329 min
Going GreenCan we trash the throwaway society?We live in a throwaway society, a place where businesses products have Planned Obsolescence built into them. this all started in 1924, representatives of the world's leading lightbulb manufacturers formed Phoebus, a cartel that fixed the average life of an incandescent bulb at 1,000 hours, ensuring that people would have to regularly buy bulbs and keep the manufacturers in business. With the advancement of technology in our society creates the desire for convenience in our consumption is another waste and pollution contributor. A large part of this problem stems from products being overly packaged. Produced by Philip M Russell Ltd Web...2022-02-2430 min
Going GreenSustainability at Winter Olympics 2022The Winter Olympics of 2022 are nearly over, in this weeks podcast, Paul and Philip look at the sustainability at Winter Olympics 2022.With the Beijing Winter Olympics using 100% artificial snow, a thing that could become the new norm as the planet heats up due to climate change. It is estimated that 49 million gallons of water have been used to make the artificial snow for the 2022 Games, despite Beijing being one of the most water-scarce cities in the world. Beijing wrote a sustainability report for the Games last year, it said it would use...2022-02-1829 min
Going GreenWhy are cars bad for the environmentThe Question "why are cars bad for the environment" is very simple, they burn fossil fuels and making them creates emissions! however, just because old cars have a poor reputation for being “gas guzzlers” which makes them bad for the environment. However, a surprising new study reveals trading in your old car for a brand new electric vehicle may actually be doing more harm than good.Researchers in Japan say choosing to keep and drive your older cars longer leads to fewer emissions entering the environment. And whereas shopping for new cars to be a p...2022-02-1029 min
Going GreenThe good, the bad and the heat pumpIn April 2022 (till 2026), The UK government will give out grants of £5,000 for people who will install heat pumps instead of new gas boilers. the reason for this that heat pumps are a zero carbon heating solution that will help homeowners make the transition to low carbon heating solutions to heat up their homes and contribute to reduced emissions. However there are a few things to keep in mind which we are talking about in this podcast episode.2022-02-0331 min
Going GreenThe Environmental, social and corporate governance scoreIn todays podcast we look at the idea of Environmental, social and corporate governance Scoring or ESG score. it grew out of a investment practice called Socially Responsible Investing (SRI). ESG investing and analysis, on the other hand, looks at finding value in companies—not just at supporting a set of values. Why is this important, the reason is that Aviva Investors, has put the directors of 1,500 companies on notice and that it is willing to seek their removal (from their investing group) if they fail to show enough urgency in tackling issues including the climate crisis and human ri...2022-01-2729 min
Going GreenManaging traffic congestion to stop air pollutionIn this episode we look at the mayor's of London plan to ease traffic congestion to improve air quality and reduce air pollution About 40,000 deaths in Britain each year are linked to air pollution with most of the pollution coming from traffic congestion. therefore the mayor of London has proposed some changes to the congestion charge to help pay for air pollution reducing measures. We explore that getting rid of cars would prevent traffic, but would not help the people living in metropolitan areas. perhaps reducing traffic, by introducing cycle lanes and bus routes will help but who would...2022-01-2029 min
Going GreenWhat is greenwashing?Seen companies marketing their goods with Eco Buzz words? this marketing ploy is called greenwashing, it trying to convince customers that the company is making positive environmental choices. The Statement "this podcast is CFC free" is a easy example of greenwashing. a claim that is true, wholesome and environmentally friendly. but if you think twice about it, Most/all podcast are CFC free because they dont use any CFC to make them, its an easy claim to make but doesn't make actually make any difference to climate change, this is the problem with greenwashing.The t...2022-01-1329 min
Going GreenPlanting a tree to offset Carbon emissionsWe look at if a climate change prevention strategy of planting a tree to offset carbon emission. Recently in wales an investment company is set to offer tree planting as a way for companies to offset their carbon emission. Locals welsh farmers are unhappy with this due to the idea that having a forest would be ruining the landscape.... Surely this should be the other way around. In other news, we look at rewilding project that are happening in the UK, like a herd (4) of European bison is being re introduced to the UK (Kent) as well as the...2022-01-0628 min
NO LINEA Growing Need for Gaming Research – NCRG's Executive Director Russell Sanna, PhDIn this episode of The Stories Behind the Bet, Philip James discusses the National Center for Responsible Gaming’s research efforts and the significance of Responsible Gaming Week with Dr. Russell Sanna. As America embraces and normalizes gambling, it’s important to teach responsible gaming at the same caliber as safe sex or defensive driving. While awareness doesn’t usually radically change public behavior, events like Responsible Gaming Week create a much-needed dialogue for stakeholders, researchers, and industry members alike. Dr. Russell Sanna joined the National Center for Responsible Gaming in 2016. He has an extensive background in many f...2021-12-3018 min
Going Greenwhat role does climate change play in affecting tornadoesWith the huge tornadoes that brought disaster to 6 States happened last week we were shocked to find out that these tornadoes didn't occur in tornado alley, wondering if climate change had anything to do with itit turns out that there are more tornadoes outside tornado alley than in! we discuss how does climate change impact tornadoes, as well as other things which such as the distinct line that separates the arid from the humid zones of America.This was described John Wesley Powell the famous geologist and explorer. this sharp climatic Boundary is slowly shifting...2021-12-1629 min
Going GreenMore food From Less spaceHow do we grow More food with Less space. With the an estimated 9 billion people to be living on this planet by 2050, 100% more food will be required to feed them, but we limited on space or arable land so what can we do. currently Food production make up 26% of our CO2 equivalent emissions already and we really do not want to increase it, so we -as a species- got get more efficient. whether that is with more organic farming techniques such as crop rotation or just better policies such as wild areas amongst the crops to...2021-12-0929 min
Going Green#cookingwithgasFor years Gas companies and suppliers, have been telling us to cook with gas, because cooking with gas is FASTER, CLEANER, and CHEAPER than Electricity. Except cooking with gas produces lots of harmful pollutants, and recently has become more expensive. But electricity has been becoming cheaper due to the new renewables coming online. so they only thing the gas companies can say is that gas stoves is faster than electricity except with induction hobs, gas is now one of the slowest ways of cooking. In this episode Paul and Philip discuss why influencers are taking pictures of themselves with...2021-12-0329 min
Going GreenWhy not holiday the eco way?The last couple of years have really decimated the holiday industry, and now may be a good time as you think about next year's holiday to do something a little different and a little greener. Perhaps instead of flying somewhere then maybe taking the train and making a second holiday of taking the train somewhere might be a better idea. Using the train is a much more green approach than driving or flying. Choosing a different type of holiday can help. If you fly then you can hire an electric car to go around the places. Some countries like...2021-11-2629 min
Going GreenRacing for the FutureIn this episode Philip and Paul look at SailGP and its Sustainability Impact League. As well as being Powered by Nature, the organisers have gone one stage further by introducing a Green aspect to the competition. There is an additional prize for the most green team. A second leader board, which runs alongside the Season Championship, has been created to monitor the performance of the teams in the Impact League, with each team's score at each SailGP event being added to the overall Impact League leader board. At the end of the season it is proposed that t...2021-11-1829 min
Going GreenWhat are the expected outcomes of COP26?In this weeks podcast, We discuss the expected outcomes of COP26. go through what has been agreed at COP26 and how those outcomes will help prevent or decrease global warming to 1.5 degrees of pre industrial levels. We talk about what isn't expected but need by others and how current Goals dont meet the outcomes of previous COP's. the Major Agreements are; More than 100 world leaders promised to end and reverse deforestation by 2030, The US and the EU announced a global partnership to cut emissions of the greenhouse gas methane by 2030 More than 40 countries committed to move away from coal...2021-11-1129 min
Going GreenAre fireworks bad for the environment?Philip and Paul look into fireworks and the chemicals that they use in their propellants such as Sulfur Carbon and Potassium Nitrate and the toxic chemicals like sulfur dioxide, nitrogen dioxide that they produce. They also look at the toxic chemicals that make the pretty colours. When these fireworks explode they leave behind microscopic particulates in the air. The largest of these called PM10 stay around for up to five days and the smallest stay around for several years in the air we breathe. Every year in every country where there are fireworks days after the events there is...2021-11-0529 min
Going GreenWhat is meant by Carbon Neutral?What is meant by Carbon Neutral and how can we get there is a common question. Philip and Paul discuss how they can get to carbon neutral or better. My company buys in Power. Much of this is made via solar panels, but at night we need to get the power from the grid, which is up to 50% renewably generated. Our hot water is supplied during the summer by solar thermal, but in the winter not enough heat is generated so we need to buy in green house unfriendly methane gas. We need water and this also has a...2021-10-2929 min
Going GreenIs renewable energy right to heat your home?There are becoming more options available as Gas prices soar and the Government stop new installations of Gas boilers. New homes will be banned from installing new gas and oil boilers by 2025 and the government wants to see no new gas and oil boilers sold after 2035. So what are the options and what are the costs involved. Philip and Paul find out.There are just a few choices you can make. Air /Ground source, hydrogen and district heating. Of these only one is really available. Many people think solar panels making electricity - but these are not...2021-10-2229 min
Going GreenThe Earthshot PrizeThere are five categories of prizes to projects that might change the world. This Sunday the prizes are to be given. Philip and Paul take a look at some of the finalists and given their opinion on which prizes they think should win. All these projects look good even ones that are not the finalists since we all need to our bit to improve the world we live in.There are five prize areas the first is to try to protect and restore nature, the second is to clean our air, the third is to revive our...2021-10-1535 min
Going GreenCan we rely on renewables?The PM announced UK to move to all renewable energy by 2035. Much of this power will come from Wind Turbines, which over the past 4 years have nearly doubled in capacity from 19GW to 35GW. But the easy installations of the offshore wind farms have been done, so now it is more likely to have to be floating wind farms further out to sea or just in deeper waters. It is not just these wind farms that we need, because although this year we have more capacity to produce wind power, the total was less due to less wind than o...2021-10-0830 min
Going GreenDo climate protests really work?We watch Extinction Rebellion climbing on trains and the protestors pulled off by the passengers, and we see Insulate Britain, blocked the main motorways of the UK bringing hundreds of people to a standstill preventing them going to work. Do these protests work. They certainly upset many of the people nearby, but they do make the headlines. Do people the think about insulating their house because insulate Britain blocked the M25. Do people use less Plastic because someone tries to superglue themselves to the roof of a train? Are there better ways to protest of change the way that...2021-10-0129 min
Going GreenPower for the PeoplePower in the UK is either Electric or gas and a small amount of Oil and LPG. Gas widely used for Heating and Cooking and is used Electricity for everything else. The bulk of our energy needs or demand is about 30 - 40GW. Where does our electricity come from ?Nuclear 15% ranges from 10% - 20%, Biomass 5%, Coal is now < >Gas 47% Gas is scaled to fit the Wind and Solar. Wind and Solar vary Wind 10-50% Solar up to 15% depends on the day. Some is imported/exported to Europe. France not supplying as much electricity, there is no...2021-09-2430 min
Going GreenThe Colours of HydrogenI did an experiment in the classroom yesterday making some hydrogen and it was colourless, but that isn't what the colours of hydrogen are all about. Most of all our hydrogen - a safe clean gas to burn for energy is called Brown Hydrogen, made from Fossils fuels and in the manufacture of this lots of Carbon and other toxic substances like sulfur are produced and typically these are left as pollutants into the air. So although you may be using a clean fuel - hydrogen - its manufacture certainly wasn't clean and green and efficient in any way.2021-09-1729 min
Going GreenCutting down emissionsScientists are calling for emissions in Carbon Dioxide to be cut by 7.6% per year. This means that by 2030 the Carbon Dioxide emissions will be cut by half. The scientists are also calling for a 3% a year cut in extracting coal, oil and gas - effectively leaving the reserves in the ground. But at present rather than a drop in production, the production has actually increased worldwide. During the pandemic most people thought that there would be a cut in emissions with few cars and planes travelling, but with people at home more emissions were produced.Philip and...2021-09-1131 min
Going GreenDecarbonising the WorldDecarbonising the world isn't about getting rid of the carbon - that’s impossible, but it all about managing the resource. Carbon Taxes can be applied to industries to push them in the right direction allowing the more efficient companies to trades carbon credits with other companies by setting caps and allowing trade. Carbon Coins are used to reward companies for not emitting carbon. The systems all come down to money. Either raising money in the form of taxes for those companies who must make carbon dioxide as part of their business like the cement industry and paying other comp...2021-09-0330 min
How Soccer Explains Leadership PodcastAccountability, Mindset, and Marketing with Will Russell, Founder & CEO of Russell MarketingIn Episode 45, Will Russell, Founder & CEO of Russell Marketing and Executive Director of Russell Gives Foundation, talks with Phil about his work with Street Soccer USA, lessons he has learned from soccer and Premier League managers, success measures, his “why,” and the sacrifices needed to reach elite status. Specifically, Will discusses: How he developed his passion for soccer and leadership, and how he got to be where he is today (1:51) His work with Street Soccer USA (3:57) Lessons he has learned from reading biographies of great managers that he has applied to his marketing work and other areas...2021-09-021h 04
Going GreenThe Cyclic EconomyReduce, Repair, Rethink, Recycle, Reuse or ReimagineIf you can buy from a different manufacturer who makes a longer lasting product, perhaps one that can have parts easily replaced or upgraded, then this helps stop the throwaway culture we live in. If you can buy a product in recycled packaging, then this also helps. Slowly manufacturers are going back to products that can be repaired and upgraded because of legislation.Local recycling depends on your council but it doesn’t have to - much you can do for yourselfTarget for recycling in the...2021-08-2730 min
Going GreenThe Plastic ConundrumShould we stop all oil production. Should we turn to electric cars powered by wind power. Should we get rid of the coal mines and only use clean wind and tidal power.Sounds great but … What would you wear? Plastics are made from Oil. No oil - no clothes, no glue, no spectacles, no computers, no cars, no phones - no kitchens units, no tea bags, no batteries!!We could be stuck in the 1870's - We might have to go back and use lead pipes for water, Wires would need hazardous lacquer rather than th...2021-08-2129 min
Going GreenThe IPCC ReportThe IPCC report comes out the week we get the hottest day ever in Europe. In the week that there are fires in Italy, Greece and Turkey. In the week when floods are also swallowing up Turkey and the USA California fires have been going on for a month. Philip and Paul look at just a few headlines from the report which blames all the current global warming on the people and paint a grim picture for the future it we don't start now. The 1.5 Celsius temperature rise is going to happen whether the world does something or not...2021-08-1330 min
Going GreenFrom Games to ConcreteThis week's topics were wide ranging from Green Games to Concrete. Moss is a wonderful substance holding up to eight times its weight in water and storing carbon for centuries as peat. This system is being used to slow down the water that rains in the centre of the country and releasing it slower so that large towns on rivers are not so easily flooded. Philip and Paul then talked about the new green games appearing like Anno 2070 and the soon to be released Anno 1800 expansion which teaches the gamers the advantages of going green. Bamboo is o...2021-08-0630 min
Going GreenThe Changing Pace of Global WarmingOver the past few weeks we have seen, Wildfires, Floods, extremes of heat in the Northern Hemisphere and Snow in Brazil. The Met Office in the UK has confirmed that the 10 hottest years have occurred in the last 20 years. Is climate change already here? Have we reached the tipping point already? - The climate has become more chaotic. The Number of methane producing ruminants (herbivores) is far greater than the number of humans . In Madagascar there is a food crisis because of back to back droughts with Thousands starving. So have we reached a point of no return - m...2021-07-3130 min
Going GreenExtreme WeatherOver the past few days we have seen extreme temperatures in the USA along with Wildfires A large Heat Dome bottling in the heat. Canada too has had extreme temperatures along with Siberia and northern China. These have all been record breaking. In contrast some of Europe and China have had record breaking rain leading to vast flooding and loss of life. China's floods were caused by a once in a 1000 year rainfall when 20cm in one day. Europe had this in three days.With the Heat and the wildfires in Siberia, the Permafrost is also melting r...2021-07-2330 min
Going GreenThe Water CycleOur planet is made up from 2/3 water how water is moved through and around our planet is called the water cycle. this cycle of water is crucial to live on this planet, it runs our climates our ability to live and how we generate power.There is a going problem with the current water cycle, the reason is that we are starting to run out of fresh drinkable (potable) water and with the rising sea levels contaminating some of our fresh water it making it harder for us and other species to live on this planet.2021-07-1630 min
Going GreenNews of the Week beginning 5th JulyThe climate change is clearly seen in northern USA and Canada as the temperatures nearly reach 50C. Houses in this part of the world are deigned to retain the heat. The houses and the people within them cannot survive these temperatures as hundreds die due the heat. We also look at capturing the Carbon Dioxide produced when making beer, capturing this and growing Algae, which in turn give off oxygen gas. The Carbon Dioxide from the fermentation of just one six pack of beer takes a tree two full days to absorb.A craft beer p...2021-07-0929 min
Going GreenFuture FoodsAre there any alternatives to maize, wheat and rice? Does it have to be Insects, algae and the more familiar soya? Why do we need different foods?Let’s look at growing Beef and growing an insect and growing Soya. Grass -> 10% turned into beef - 90% wastage But its not quite so true Much of the feed would go to waste.Insects made of chitin. Inedible!!We look at a whole range of food which are good to eat and help save the planet.Is a Vegetarian butcher called a greengrocer?2021-07-0128 min
Going GreenSpecial UK less prepared for Global Climate ChangeThis week we are looking a rather damning indictment on the Government that we as a country are less prepared for global climate change than we were 5 years ago. The Climate change Risk Assessment is carried out every 5 years and is a lengthy report that reviews how well the country is prepared for global climate change. The report is then looked at by the government and its committees and policies are made that will bear brought into effect on the review date in 2022.We are going to have a look into this report and see what we...2021-06-2430 min
Going GreenLithium PowerLithium is our way out for power. Lithium Batteries are made from Lithium Carbonate and there are huge deposits in Cornwall and Scotland. The Cornish reserves give us 260mg per litre flowing at a rate of 40-60 litres per second. But we know that mining is environmentally costly. The World's highest grade Lithium in Geothermal waters gives us a low environmental footprint that's enough for a phone battery every few secondsThe Demand is soaring for batteries for renewables. At the moment most of the Lithium comes from Australia, Chile and Argentina but is expensive and unfriendly...2021-06-1726 min