Shows
Planet PossibleJune MiniPod with Phoebe Weston (Forever Chemicals, Working with Farmers & Climate Attitudes)We're joined by The Guardian newspaper Biodiversity Reporter, Phoebe Weston in this months MiniPod and we discuss...The news that water contamination by forever chemicals from an airport in eastern France has resulted in 3000 vulnerable residents unable to drink their tap water.A groundbreaking tree-planting programme that is uniting farmers and rewilders in the Yorkshire Dales National Park.UK data shows 60% of adults think climate and the environment are important issues – we’ll explore the role of the media in portraying these topics responsibly.Useful LinksRead Phoebe's article on ghost woodlands and rewilding here2025-06-2615 min
Planet PossibleTony JuniperFor many in the environment sector the name Tony Juniper is synonymous with the defence of nature. He has led major organisations, run global campaigns and advised at the highest levels, including co-authoring ‘Harmony’ with His Majesty King Charles II. He was recently re-appointed as the Chair of Natural England and is a Fellow of the Cambridge Institute of Sustainability Leadership. In our June episode we explore how we achieve the pace and scale of change that is needed to create a system that meets the needs of people thriving on a living planet - and what still...2025-06-1237 min
Planet PossibleMay MiniPod with Lee Pitcher MP (Drought, Water Safety & Climate Change)Niki is joined by Lee Pitcher, MP for Doncaster East and the Isle of Axholme and Chair of the APPG on Water. Prior to being an MP has spent his career building partnerships across the water sector and this episode we’re talking about…The threat of drought across the UK this summer as April temperatures were the 3rd warmest since records began.The Water Safety Bill – as a new MP this is Lee’s first Bill to pass through parliament, we hear why it's so important and why it's not already part of legislation.The Climate Change Committe...2025-05-2915 min
Planet PossibleOfwat Innovation Fund WinnersJeannette Henderson, co-lead for Innovation at Ofwat shares some of the winners of the latest round of funding from the 5th Water Breakthrough Challenge.Hear some of the projects that are embracing drones, robotics and AI as Ofwat share £42m across 16 projects aiming to radically innovate within the water sector in England and Wales.Jeanette shares how Ofwat are working with other regulators to also drive innovation in the way they regulate.Finally find out what the future holds for the Innovation Fund, aiming to share £600m across by 2030.Find out mor...2025-05-2010 minPlanet PossibleBiocidesMain interview guest: Natalie Bennett - Green Party Peer, Baroness Bennett of Manor CastleExpert co-host: Michael Mattle - Head of Wastewater Technology at Holinger We're exploring how biocides – human-made chemicals that we find in products like surface cleaners and toothpastes – are impacting the microbiomes in our bodies and our environmental systems. In 2025 Green Party Peer, Baroness Bennett of Manor Castle, Natalie Bennett, brought a private members bill to Westminster to regulate the use of these chemicals in consumer products intended for human consumption. We hear what Biocides are, where we'll find them and why Natali...2025-05-1538 min
Planet PossibleApril MiniPod (Smart Meters, Data Centres & Diversity)In today's episode we’re focusing on water that’s used by businesses, which makes up 30% of all the water that’s supplied in England. Join Sarah McMath, CEO of MOSl as we explore the challenges of needing to deliver an extra 5 billion litres of water each day into supply by 2050 and the opportunities - and challenges - presented by commercial water demand.We explore...Smart metering for business customers and the current lack of data to understand how much water they're using - and when.News that Amazon, Microsoft and Google are planning to build hundre...2025-04-2415 minPlanet PossibleCould Rainwater fill the Water Demand Gap?25% of all the water that comes into our homes is flushed down the toilet. By 2050, we’re going to need an extra 5 billion litres of water a day - almost a third more - available in 25 years.This increased need for water is driven by a growing population, new homes and a water hungry economy and there's an opportunity to reduce our demand for the highest quality drinking water by using an alternative for things like flushing the toilet and watering the garden. So in todays episode we explore whether harvesting rainwater and using it in...2025-04-1042 min
Planet PossibleMarch MiniPod (Beavers, Western Forest & Communities and nature)Welcome to our March MiniPod - a monthly update where we're joined by an expert guest & we react to current events in water, climate and nature - all in about 15 minutes.In this episode we're joined by Dave Slater, Regional Director for Natural England for the South West of England, and we explore...Whether beavers are a force for good after the news that the UK Government has announced its commitment to reintroducing beavers into the wild. The creation of the Western Forest – the first new national forest in 30 years.How we ensure nature has an endur...2025-03-2714 minPlanet PossibleCircular Economy - Passion, Progress and Profitability?A circular economy is a system where materials never become waste and nature is regenerated. The UK government wants to transition the UK to a circular economy and in 2024 established a circular economy taskforce to consider the policy pathways, interventions and targets make this happen. We explore the circular economy in the UK and internationally and dig into a range of examples from both community action and the water sector. Our main interview is with Rick Lancaster, Global Bioresrouces Director for Atkins Réalis and to help us navigate this topic our Co-Host is Su...2025-03-1343 min
Planet PossibleFebruary MiniPod (Flea Treatments, Ocean Nutrient Changes & AI and Bathing Waters)Welcome to our February MiniPod - a monthly update where we're joined by an expert guest & we react to current events in water, climate and nature - all in about 15 minutes.In this episode we're joined by Dr Vera Jones, Technical Director and Global Technical Authority for Water Quality at AtkinsRéalis, and we explore...How pet owners might be having an unexpectedly negative impact on the health of aquatic life in our rivers and estuaries.New research that makes the link between human driven climate change and the impact on nutrient cycles in our oceans.In...2025-02-2714 minPlanet PossibleGreen Finance - Making Nature Valuable?Interview guest - Bevis Watts (CEO of Triodos Bank UK, a leader in ethical and sustainable banking)Co-host - Ed Dick (CEO of Great Yellow, a company that sources long-term capital for nature restoration projects)We’re often joined by guests on Planet Possible who identify and look to take action to solve the challenges that we face in our water and environment. But we don’t often talk about how the work gets paid for. We know that water customers' bills can provide funding for environmental improvements or flood schemes, and governments can p...2025-02-1342 min
Planet PossibleJanuary MiniPod (Coastal Erosion Risk, Climate & Inclusion in Flood Projects)Welcome to our January MiniPod - a monthly update where we're joined by an expert guest & we react to current events in water, climate and nature - all in about 15 minutes.In this episode we're joined by Julie Foley, Director of Flood Risk Strategy & National Adaptation at the Environment Agency and we explore...The recently updated flood and coastal erosion risk information for England that means one in four properties in England could be in areas at risk of flooding by the middle of the century.2024 was the 4th warmest year on record in the UK – so...2025-01-3016 minPlanet PossibleThe Climate & Nature Bill (with Roz Savage MP and Lord Deben)As we record this episode at the start of January, wherever you are in the world your news is likely to be filled with images of the devastating wildfires in Los Angeles, or temperatures well below freezing alongside flooding across much of the UK. And whilst climate and it’s impact on weather might be making the headlines, we know that nature and the biodiversity crises are inexorably linked to this challenge. So in todays episode we explore just how linked climate and nature are – and potentially could be in UK legislation. Ahead of the Climate...2025-01-1642 minPlanet PossibleValencia Floods: What Really Happened?In this episode we explore the recent flooding that has happened across the south of Spain, resulting in the tragic loss of 224 lives, and resulting in Spain mounting it’s biggest peacetime disaster recovery operation. One of the consequences of a changing climate is more extreme weather and that’s what exactly what the Valencia region experienced in late October.You'll hear what happened, what the situation is like at the moment in Valencia and what early lessons are beginning to be shared. We're joined by Miguel Cano, a Principal Hydraulic Modeller at Anglian Water who was...2024-12-1941 minPlanet PossibleValencia floodsIn this episode we explore the recent flooding that has happened across the south of Spain, resulting in the tragic loss of 224 lives, and resulting in Spain mounting it’s biggest peacetime disaster recovery operation. One of the consequences of a changing climate is more extreme weather and that’s what exactly what the Valencia region experienced in late October.You'll hear what happened, what the situation is like at the moment in Valencia and what early lessons are beginning to be shared. We're joined by Miguel Cano, a Principal Hydraulic Modeller at Anglian Water who was...2024-12-1941 min
Planet PossibleDecember MiniPod (Flooding Funding, Neonicitinoids & Nature Connection)Welcome to our December MiniPod - a monthly update where we're joined by an expert guest & we react to current events in water, climate and nature - all in about 15 minutes.In this episode we're joined by Will McBain, a Director of Water at Arup and we explore...1. The UK Government review of partnership funding regime for Flood and coastal erosion risk management.2. New figures that reveal that 86% of rivers tested in 2023-24 in England were found to have bee-killing neonicotinoid pesticides present whilst the office of environmental protection opens an investigation into...2024-12-1214 minPlanet PossibleCOP29November 2024 has been a busy month in the news for conversations about our changing climate – from flooding due to Storm Bert in the UK, the tragic floods in southern Spain and wildfires in South America. It’s against this backdrop, that we’re digging into what happened at the recent Climate COP in Baku, Azerbaijan; whether it went as experts expected and what it all means at all scales from international agreements to local action.We hear from the Chair of the UK’s Climate Change Committee who’s represented the UK at COP29, Piers Forster and the episod...2024-11-2841 min
Planet PossibleNov MiniPod (Trump, Planning Reform & AI)Welcome to our November MiniPod!
It's a monthly update where we’re joined by an expert guest and we react to current events in water, climate and nature - all in about 15 minutes.
And in this episode hear from the CIWEM Junior President Peter Rook as we discuss-
• What a Donald Trump Presidency means for climate and the environment.
• The opportunities of planning reform in the UK.
• How AI could make us more resilient to climate change and environmental shocks.
Sponsor
Our 2024 season of Planet Possible is supported by Atkins Realis Credits
Presented & Produced by Niki Roach
Executive Producer Andy Taylor - B...2024-11-1415 minPlanet PossibleCitizen ScienceGet Involved:Rivers Trust Big Riverwatch - https://theriverstrust.org/take-action/the-big-river-watchEarthwatch Europes Great Water Blitz - https://earthwatch.org.uk/greatukwaterblitz/?gad_source=1&gclid=Cj0KCQjw1Yy5BhD-ARIsAI0RbXbP0LGenvFditCly4FiZ6lMRAksO7qXflyKjQZNbyYkDu7ZiNIl8-waAoqyEALw_wcBOur 2024 season of Planet Possible is supported by Atkins Realis.
Credits Presented & Produced by Niki RoachExecutive Producer Andy Taylor - Bwlb LimitedWith thanks to Alastair ChisholmHonorary Executive Producer Jane Boland 2024-11-0148 min
Planet PossibleOct MiniPod (Smart Meters, Water Security and UK Water Review)Find out more about The Water Report here:www.thewaterreport.co.uk
Credits Presented & Produced by Niki RoachExecutive Producer Andy Taylor - Bwlb LimitedWith thanks to Alastair ChisholmHonorary Executive Producer Jane Boland 2024-10-1713 min
RePod - European podcastingBeyond the Hype: How Revolutionary Is AI Really?In this episode of RePod - AI and the future of podcasting, Alexander talks to Andy Taylor, CEO and founder of BWLB, a Welsh company focused on producing innovation in content and products. Through BWLB - and before the AI boom -Andy developed Accordion, a piece of tech that gives podcast listeners control of the duration of content without losing structure. Alexander and Andy discuss why Accordion was not yet AI and what, beyond the buzz, AI-driven ultimately means in podcastingJoin Andy Taylor (CEO, BWLB and Accordion) and Alexander Damiano Ricci, who go beyond the...2024-10-0714 minPlanet PossibleChris PackhamChris Packham spoke to Niki Roach in a special live recording of Planet Possible at ESS Expo (Environmental Services & Technology Solutions 2024) at the NEC in Birmingham.
Credits Presented & Produced by Niki RoachExecutive Producer Andy Taylor - Bwlb LimitedWith thanks to Alastair ChisholmHonorary Executive Producer Jane Boland 2024-09-2631 min
Planet PossibleSept MiniPod (Social Prescribing, The Big River Watch & Street Trees)Green Social Prescribing study:https://news.exeter.ac.uk/faculty-of-health-and-life-sciences/new-research-has-found-prescribing-nature-can-improve-happiness-and-reduce-anxiety/Get involved in the Big River Watch here: https://theriverstrust.org/take-action/the-big-river-watchFind out what’s happening in Hackney here:https://hackney.gov.uk/trees/
Credits Presented & Produced by Niki RoachExecutive Producer Andy Taylor - Bwlb LimitedWith thanks to Alastair ChisholmHonorary Executive Producer Jane Boland 2024-09-1115 minPlanet PossibleCircular FarmingAgriculture has a major role in determining water availability and quality, especially in a region like Yorkshire where a large amount of catchment water moves over and through farmland.In this episode, host Niki Roach visits the Biohub at Ings Farm near Harrogate to see a load of innovative farming practices being trialled. The aim is to increase biodiversity, enable sustainable and commercially viable food production and improve water quality, flood resilience and future water supplies.Claire Green from Yorkshire Water is Niki's guest co-host to introduce the concept of the Biohub and place it...2024-08-2940 min
Planet PossibleAugust MiniPod (NZ focus on Water Reform & the Politics of Water)Welcome to our MiniPod!It's an extra once-a-month update episode that will react to current events in water, climate and nature. It's a MiniPod because it'll only take about 15 minutes of your time.. and it means you get a Planet Possible episode every two weeks.Each mini pod you'll hear from an environmental expert guest and together we will discuss 3 key current talking points that will keep you up-to-date with the latest planet positive developments.And in this episode hear from the Chief Executive of Water New Zealand, Gillian Blythe as she choses...2024-08-1514 minPlanet PossibleHow to Handle a Moving CoastlineJoin Niki and her co-host Julie Foley, Director of Flood Risk Strategy and Natural Adaptation at the Environment Agency in England to explore how to manage a moving coastline.With one of the fastest changing coastlines in Europe, we focus on North Norfolk and hear from Councillor Harry Blathwayt on how communities prepare for coastal erosion and the potential loss of their homes to the sea.This season of Planet Possible is supported by Atkins Realis.
Credits Presented & Produced by Niki RoachExecutive Producer Andy Taylor...2024-08-0138 min
Planet PossibleNew! MiniPod July (Draft Determination, King's Speech and Sustainable Homes)Welcome to our first MiniPod!It's an extra once-a-month update episode that will react to current events in water, climate and nature. It's a MiniPod because it'll only take about 15 minutes of your time.. and it means you get a Planet Possible episode every two weeks.Each mini pod I will be joined by an environmental expert guest and together we will discuss 3 key current talking points that will keep you bang up-to-date with the latest planet positive developments.And in our first episode hear from Director of Policy at CIWEM, Alastair Chisholm...2024-07-1915 minPlanet PossibleThe Thames: Campaigners and Company Have Their SayWhat does the cleanliness of England's longest river say about the debate around river quality the role of the UK's biggest water company, Thames Water? This episode aims to find out by telling two sides of the story - what the campaigners say... and what the company itself says.We're joined by broadcaster and environmentalist, Steve Backshall and the CEO of River Action, James Wallace to hear their experiences of river water quality sampling and what they hope for the future of the river. Then hear Alex Nickson, Head of Environmental Compliance, Partnerships and Catchment Management respond t...2024-07-0343 minPlanet PossibleWhat the Next Government Should Do for Water and the EnvironmentEveryone got a bit of a shock when a General Election was announced for July 4th. So, we know there is going to be a new government. Whoever ends up in power, what should they be doing - in the first 100 days and beyond - to do right by water and the environment?Host Niki Roach and CIWEM Director of Policy Al Chisholm pick their 3 wishes (they actually end up with 4) for the new incoming government... plus there are things that need finishing and following through on. Water and environment have never been higher up the political...2024-05-3029 minPlanet PossibleActivismCan you be an activist and an environmental professional? How do we tackle eco-anxiety, especially for the next generation and is activism be something everyone can get involved in?In today’s episode we’re exploring the role that activism plays in driving positive environmental and climate outcomes. Increasingly we’re seeing and hearing individuals and groups looking to drive faster action on slowing the speed at which our planet is warming. What are some of the unintended consequences of activism - and how can we support youth activists more effectively?To explore this - and much more - we're joined by a 24-yea...2024-04-2536 minPlanet PossibleBioresourcesWe're exploring the topic of bioresources - sometimes called sewage sludge - and our interview is with Georgia Elliot-Smith, who's heading up 'Fighting Dirty' - a campaign to ensure environmental regulation around sewage sludge - last updated in 1989 in England and Wales - remains effective. Niki's co-host is the Director of Innovation & Delivery at CIWEM and supported the creation of the National Biosolids Strategy in 2023 - Paul Shaffer.Find out what Fighting Dirty are aiming to change, how bioresources are currently managed in England and Wales and what our guests would make possible with the Planet Possible...2024-03-2841 minPlanet PossibleHighway RunoffThe water that runs off our traffic-filled roads ends up in our rivers, but we know little about it, it's hardly monitored and improving the quality of that runoff is a huge task.Join us for this special episode of Planet Possible in collaboration with Watershed Investigations as we dig into the realities of highway runoff . . We’re joined from the front line by Jo Bradley from Stormwater Shepherds as she carries out water quality testing and hear from both National Highways, who own the strategic road network and the Environment Agency, the environmental regulator in England. 2024-02-2952 minPlanet PossibleFlood Ready?Are you flood ready? How do you find out if your home is at risk of flooding? What can you do to protect your home and if water does suddenly come through your door, what should you do next?With much of England and Scotland experiencing rainfall 70% above average for December, flooding has impacted thousands of homes and businesses. Join Niki and her co-host and Environment Agency Environment Manager, Ian Withers as they explore the role of the EA in flood forecasting, warning and operational response.We hear the first hand impact of flooding from...2024-01-1941 minPlanet PossibleCOP282023 is set to be the hottest year on record with temperatures 1.4 degrees Celsius above the pre-industrial average and sea surface temperatures for the polar oceans reaching almost 21 degrees C in October. In recent years we’ve seen the climate COPs making headline news - so what was it like to attend COP28, how significant were the outputs - and how did the paradox of a fossil fuel economy hosting COP hosting a COP play out?Join Niki and her co-host and Yorkshire and Humber Climate Commissioner, Adam Ashman as they explore what COP28 means at a national an...2023-12-2037 minPlanet PossiblePlastic GrassYou might already have a view on whether it’s a helpful way of bringing some greenery to a tricky space – or that it should be banned entirely. Either way, we’re going to explore in this episode some of the science and evidence behind the use of plastic grass, think about why it’s proving so popular and explore some great alternatives for people to think about. We’re joined by a fantastic co-host, Dr Chloe Sutcliffe of the Royal horticultural Society, and we speak with Professor Ross Cameron from the University of Sheffield on the radical cha...2023-11-2346 minPlanet PossibleHow To Fix The UK Water SectorWater in the UK has become both a political football and a source of vast public anger. Storm overflows, sewage spills, dying rivers and dividend payouts have dominated debates everywhere from parliament to the pub. Everyone seems to have an opinion, and clearly there are huge and complex issues... but what are the answers?CIWEM Director of Policy Al Chisholm is in a unique position of objectivity and influence. He's across the detail and the breadth of the issues. Niki Roach, with her vast and varied experience within the water industry senses the nuances that the public...2023-10-2035 minPlanet PossibleNutrient NeutralityIf you’re in the UK you’ll have heard about recent proposed changes to nutrient neutrality. Adding to the wider debate about the health of our rivers across England in particular, we explore the proposed changes & what they could mean for river health.Niki is joined by Philip Dunne, MP for Ludlow and the Chair of the Environmental Audit Committee who in 2021 put forward the private members bill that kickstarted much of the debate around river health. Dr Gabriel Connor-Streich joins Niki to co-host and offer his perspective based on his experience of developing nutrient neutrality guid...2023-09-1338 min
Planet PossibleUruguayUruguay has been facing the longest drought the country has ever recorded in it’s capital Montevideo, leaving the city almost completely dry and the Paso Severino reservoir, supplying over half the country’s 3.4 millions people, at 2.4% capacity in late June. This is especially fascinating for a country that in 2004 enshrined access to water as a fundamental right in it’s constitution.To help us understand more about how Montevideo got here, what’s happening now and crucially, what lessons can we identify we're joined by a Uruguayan researcher, winner of the L'Oreal-UNESCO Women in Science Award and Prof...2023-08-2232 minPlanet PossibleNeurodiversity*Content warning: This podcast contains brief mentions of experiences around mental ill-health and miscarriage which some listeners may find upsetting.Many different types of neurodivergence exist, and it can be hard to understand what workplace adjustments we can make that will support everyone. What constitutes a reasonable request? Whose responsibility is it? Niki Roach is joined by Lea Nightingale, JBA Consulting & CIEEM; Zoe Brunswick, RSK; Rai Hastie, The Environment Agency; Francesca Brahmbhatt, CIWEM; and Emily Clarke, Binnies to try to unpick some of those questions and provide tips to help shape a better work environment for all. ...2023-07-0639 min
Planet PossibleA Fresh Water Future?What does the future of water look like? Do we need a single organisation managing our water catchments and do we need more resources to regulate the quality and quantity of our water? Join the Chief Executive of the Environment Agency, John Curtin and CIWEM's Director of Policy, Alastair Chisholm as we explore these topics - and find out what John's biggest environmental concern is.A fresh water future?You can read more from the conversation in CIWEM's new series, A Fresh Water Future - just click the below.A Fresh Water Future...2023-06-2024 min
Planet PossibleThe WaterUK apology stormOn the day we hear an apology from WaterUK on behalf of the water sector for sewage pollution from storm overflows, we wanted to explore what this really means for customers and the environment and whether there are any unintended consequences. We’re joined by the acting CEO of the Environment Agency John Curtin and Niki’s co-host and CIWEM Director of Policy, Al Chisholm to discuss their reflections.
Credits Presented & Produced by Niki RoachExecutive Producer Andy Taylor - Bwlb LimitedWith thanks to Ala...2023-05-1814 min
RePod - European podcastingBehind "Accordion", the tool shortening podcasts without losing structure. With Andy Taylor - CEO and founder at BwlbIn this fifth podcast episode of RePod, host Alexander Damiano Ricci talks to Andy Taylor, Chief Executive Officer and founder of Bwlb. Bwlb is a Welsh company focused on producing innovation in content and products. Andy founded the company after two decades in audio and radio - he also worked for the BBC. But beyond all that, Andy is the inventor of Accordion. Accordion is a piece of tech that gives podcast listeners the control of the duration of content without losing structure. In this chat with Andy we explain what Accordion is, how it works, and what the...2023-05-0519 minPlanet PossibleValuing our landJoin us for the Season Finale of the pod and our first on-location episode! Niki and co-host Alastair Chisholm head to Spains Hall Estate in north Essex to meet Archie Ruggles-Brise and explore some of his innovative approaches to managing the land - and water - across the estate. Listen as we explore the estate, hear about the approaches to natural flood management, biodiversity net gain, natural capital agroforestry and topped off with a visit to one of the beaver lodges.You can find out more about the work of Spains Hall here: https://www.spainshallestate.co.uk...2023-05-0446 minPlanet PossibleThe business of climate changeJoin Niki and her co-host, Susan Stockwell, Managing Director of Skewb Green, as they explore how business are approaching the challenge of climate change. Our guest interview is with the Rt. Hon John Gummer, Lord Deben, Chair of the Committee on Climate Change and formerly the longest serving Secretary of State for the Environment for UK (1993-97).
We explore the legacy of COP27 and what actions we need our Government, businesses and us as individuals to take to adapt and increase our resilience to climate change.Credits
Presented & Produced by Niki Roach
Executive Producer Andy Taylor - Bwlb Limited
With t...2023-04-1345 minPlanet PossibleMentors, friends and alliesJoin Niki in conversation with Hannah Coogan, Emma Sherburn and Clare Rodgers as they celebrate the role that mentors, friends and allies have played in their careers to date. Find out what advice they'd give to their 21 year old selves and as ever - we pass them the Planet Possible 'magic wand' to see what they'd want to make possible.This is perfect listening if you're thinking about a career in the water and environment sector or an opportunity to reflect on your own career path. If you'd like to explore how a mentor can support your d...2023-03-2340 minPlanet PossibleLiving with Water - BelfastWhat does it take to make a step change to the water environment when so many organisations are responsible for individual parts of it?Join us as Niki speaks to Paddy Brow, Head of the Living with Water Programme for Wastewater Treatment for Northern Ireland Water & find out how they’re tackling some significant pollution challenges in Belfast Lough.This episode is co-hosted by Lee Pitcher, Head of Partnerships for Yorkshire Water and a Board Member for the Living with Water programme in Hull.Season 4 of Planet Possible is sponsored by Skewb.
...2023-03-0240 minPlanet PossibleFuture GenerationsWith a remit set out in law to be “the guardian of the interests of future generations in Wales”, Sophie Howe is the world’s only Future Generations Commissioner. Her role is to provide advice to the Government and other public bodies in Wales on delivering social, economic, environmental and cultural well-being for current and future generations and assessing and reporting on how they are delivering.Sophie, a mum of five named number five on Radio Four's Woman's Hour's Power List, took up post in 2016 and has led high profile interventions around transport planning, education reform and climat...2023-02-0945 minPlanet PossibleNature RecoveryWelcome to a brand new season of Planet Possible! We’re back with a season packed with insightful guests and were pleased to introduce our new season sponsor - Skewb - whose support enables us to bring the pod to you.In this first episode join Niki and her co-host Sara King from Rewilding Britain as they discuss all things rewilding, including what Rewilding really means. In our main interview hear the thoughts of Tony Juniper CBE, Chair of Natural England, on the need for nature recovery, how we‘re doing so far and what Tony...2023-01-1948 min
Planet PossibleWater Reform in Aotearoa - NZFor more information on Water New Zealand - https://www.waternz.org.nz/For more information on Te Mana o te Wai - https://environment.govt.nz/acts-and-regulations/freshwater-implementation-guidance/te-mana-o-te-wai-implementation/
Credits Presented & Produced by Niki RoachExecutive Producer Andy Taylor - Bwlb LimitedWith thanks to Alastair ChisholmHonorary Executive Producer Jane Boland 2022-12-3019 min
Planet PossibleAn insiders view of COP27 & COP15What's it really like to be an observer at a COP?As COP15, the UN Biodiversity Conference, heads towards it's conclusion, join Niki and her guest and Arctic Angel, Margherita Barbieri as they step behind the scenes to explore what was discussed at COP27 and what Margherita hopes to hear as outcomes from COP15 in Montreal.Find out more about the work of Global Choices and Arctic Angels here... https://www.globalchoices.org/arctic-angels
Credits Presented & Produced by Niki RoachExecutive Producer Andy Taylor - Bwlb Li...2022-12-1419 min
Planet PossibleThe War On NatureThe short-lived Truss government's push for growth at all costs sent shockwaves through the environmental sector as green policies were abandoned, reversed or shelved... potentially leaving UK nature in crisis. In this special episode of Planet Possible, host Niki Roach is joined by two sector heavyweights and key players in the coalition of environmental organisations that spoke up in opposition to the so-called 'War On Nature' and mobilised - Beccy Speight, CEO of the RSPB and Craig Bennett, CEO of The Wildlife Trusts. CIWEM's Director Of Policy Al Chisholm is also on hand providing industry context to set up...2022-10-2219 minPlanet Possible6. InnovationJoin Niki and her co-host Angela MacOscar, Head of Innovation at Northumbrian Water as they explore the innovation landscape in the water sector. Paul O'Callaghan, Founder and CEO of Bluetech Research gives a global perspective on latest trends, what we can learn from pre-Incan civilisations and how the water sector is the 'Neville Longbottom' of innovation!
Planet Possible is a Bwlb production & is sponsored by Binnies.com
An audio transcript of this episode is available.Credits
Presented & Produced by Niki Roach
Executive Producer Andy Taylor - Bwlb Limited
With thanks to Alastair Chisholm
Honorary Executive Producer Jane Boland2022-10-2035 minPlanet Possible5. Barriers to climate adaptationJoin Niki and her co-host, Md Shamsuddoha, the CEO of the Centre for Participatory Research & Development in Bangladesh as they explore the barriers to communities adapting to climate change & the secondary and tertiary impacts of climate change. In this episode we hear from Tim Wainwright, CEO of WaterAid as he reflects on why the world is still not making access to water and sanitation a priority - and crucially what needs to happen to support communities to be able to adapt.Each episode of Planet Possible is audio transcribed and contributes 45 minutes towards Continuing Professional Development.
...2022-10-0643 min
Planet PossibleStorm overflows - a political football?Thanks to Planet Possible's Season Sponsors, Binnies, for enabling us to bring this podcast to you.Binnies.com
Credits Presented & Produced by Niki RoachExecutive Producer Andy Taylor - Bwlb LimitedWith thanks to Alastair ChisholmHonorary Executive Producer Jane Boland 2022-09-1216 minPlanet PossibleForever ChemicalsJoin Niki and her co-host Mark Challoner as they explore the world of Forever Chemicals. If you've heard of PFAS and want to know more - or want to get an overview of this critically important topic, this episode is for you.All of our episodes in Season 3 are audio transcribed & contribute to your CPD points.Huge thanks to our Season Sponsors Binnies for enabling us to bring Planet Possible to you.
Credits Presented & Produced by Niki RoachExecutive Producer Andy Taylor - Bwlb Limited2022-07-2135 min
Planet PossibleThanks to our season sponsors, Binnies, for enabling us to bring Planet Possible to you.A transcription of this episode - and all episodes in Season 3 - is available on the Planetpossible.eco website.
Credits Presented & Produced by Niki RoachExecutive Producer Andy Taylor - Bwlb LimitedWith thanks to Alastair ChisholmHonorary Executive Producer Jane Boland 2022-06-2423 min
Planet PossibleFlood & Coast Special: Day 2Season 3 of Planet Possible is supported by Binnies
Credits Presented & Produced by Niki RoachExecutive Producer Andy Taylor - Bwlb LimitedWith thanks to Alastair ChisholmHonorary Executive Producer Jane Boland 2022-06-0827 min
Planet PossibleFlood & Coast Special: Day 1Season 3 of Planet Possible is supported by Binnies.
Credits Presented & Produced by Niki RoachExecutive Producer Andy Taylor - Bwlb LimitedWith thanks to Alastair ChisholmHonorary Executive Producer Jane Boland 2022-06-0727 min
Planet PossibleThe Climate Front LineCoastal communities and those impacted by flooding are on the front line of climate change, already experiencing more frequent and severe events. Join Niki and her co-host Caroline Douglass, the Environment Agency's Exec Director for Flood and Coastal Risk Management as they explore how the Environment Agency are helping communities prepare to adapt and be resilient to the impacts of climate change and more frequent and severe flooding events. Our guest interview is the Special Envoy for Climate Change in the Maldives, Her Excellency Sabra Nordeen who describes the experience of attending COP26 as a re...2022-05-2034 min
Planet PossibleHealthy RiversA full transcript of this episode is available to provide wider accessibility to the content of the pod. Planet Possible is sponsored by Binnies - find out more at binnies.com
Credits Presented & Produced by Niki RoachExecutive Producer Andy Taylor - Bwlb LimitedWith thanks to Alastair ChisholmHonorary Executive Producer Jane Boland 2022-04-2043 min
Planet PossibleWhat's possible? A pre-season audio specialSeason 3 of Planet Possible launches on the 20th April! in this final pre-season audio special, find out what some of our previous and future guests think is possible for our planet over the next ten years. Credits
Presented & Produced by Niki Roach
Executive Producer Andy Taylor - Bwlb Limited
With thanks to Alastair Chisholm
Honorary Executive Producer Jane Boland2022-04-0607 min
Planet PossibleThe Magic Wand - Pre- Season Audio SpecialWhat would you do for the environment if you had a magic wand? We look back in this pre-season special on what some of our guests would do.Credits
Presented & Produced by Niki Roach
Executive Producer Andy Taylor - Bwlb Limited
With thanks to Alastair Chisholm
Honorary Executive Producer Jane Boland2022-03-2213 min
Planet PossiblePre-season audio special - Al & Niki reflectionsLet's talk WEM will be back soon for Season 3 with some superb guests and a new name! Moving forward you'll find us if you search for Planet Possible - but don't worry, subscribe and your podcast player will automatically pick up the new season.Until then, enjoy this series of shorter audio specials...
Credits Presented & Produced by Niki RoachExecutive Producer Andy Taylor - Bwlb LimitedWith thanks to Alastair ChisholmHonorary Executive Producer Jane Boland 2022-03-0915 min
Planet PossiblePre-Season Audio Special with Mike WheelerThis audio was recorded as part of the first WEM Pride online event, for members of the Water and Environmental Management LGBTQ+ community and their allies who would like to raise awareness of LGBTQ+ issues in the WEM sector. WEM Pride provides LGBTQ+ people a safe space to share stories to support their community and increase education on the importance of Diversity and Inclusion in the WEM sector.Speakers aim to focus on how far we’ve come in the WEM world in relation to LGBTQ+ issues, the importance of being an ally and what it’s like...2022-02-2317 minPlanet PossibleSome of the best bits from Season 2Thanks to our Season 2 Sponsor - Thames Water - for helping us to bring Let's talk WEM to you.
Credits Presented & Produced by Niki RoachExecutive Producer Andy Taylor - Bwlb LimitedWith thanks to Alastair ChisholmHonorary Executive Producer Jane Boland 2021-12-1606 minPlanet PossibleSocial PrescribingJoin Niki and her co-host Maya Butler from Natural England and guest Stephanie Smith from Bradford University Teaching Hospital as they explore green and blue social prescribing. What is it, how does it work and why should water and environment professionals think about in their work?Credits
Presented & Produced by Niki Roach
Executive Producer Andy Taylor - Bwlb Limited
With thanks to Alastair Chisholm
Honorary Executive Producer Jane Boland2021-11-1836 minPlanet PossibleNature Based SolutionsJoin Niki and her co-host and Environment Agency Chair, Emma Howard-Boyd as they explore the topic of Nature Based Solutions. Hear reflections from Beccy Speight, CEO of the RSPB on the importance of working with nature in tackling both the biodiversity and climate crisis and what more we can do to accelerate progress towards these types of solutions.Credits
Presented & Produced by Niki Roach
Executive Producer Andy Taylor - Bwlb Limited
With thanks to Alastair Chisholm
Honorary Executive Producer Jane Boland2021-10-2835 minPlanet PossibleGreening CitiesJoin Niki and her co-host, Anusha Shah, Director of Resilient Cities at Arcadis as they explore how green our cities are - and what's possible. Hear from Dusty Gedge, President of the European Federation of Green Roofs and passionate environmentalist who's mapped all of the green roof potential in London about what he sees are the ways forward to change our citiscapes globally.Credits
Presented & Produced by Niki Roach
Executive Producer Andy Taylor - Bwlb Limited
With thanks to Alastair Chisholm
Honorary Executive Producer Jane Boland2021-10-1438 minPlanet PossibleCOP26Join Niki Roach as she speaks with Chris Stark, CEO of the Climate Change Committee (CCC). The CCC advise the UK and devolved governments on emissions targets and to report to Parliament on progress made in reducing greenhouse gas emissions and preparing for and adapting to the impacts of climate change. We hear what Chris thinks a 'good COP' will look like and his hopes and expectations for COP26 in his home city of Glasgow.Niki's co-host for this episode is Dr Mark Fletcher, the Global Water Business Leader at Arup. Mark has attended several COP's in per...2021-09-2238 minPlanet PossibleCOP15Join CIWEM President Niki Roach and her co-host Richard Benwell as they talk about COP - but maybe not the one you'd expect! We interview Craig Bennett, the CEO of The Wildlife Trusts and hear his reflections on how COVID and the nature emergency are linked, our current progress on the nature emergency and what a successful COP15 looks like.Credits
Presented & Produced by Niki Roach
Executive Producer Andy Taylor - Bwlb Limited
With thanks to Alastair Chisholm
Honorary Executive Producer Jane Boland2021-09-0140 minPlanet PossibleClimateAre our schools ready to adapt to climate change? How do we engage children about the future of the planet without overwhelming them? Join CIWEM President Niki Roach and her co-host Baroness Brown as they discuss the challenges facing schools as they tackle climate change adaptation and resilience both in the classroom and the fabric of school buildings.Season 2 kicks off with a fantastic line up of guests connecting the water & environment sector and education. Lesley McKay, Headteacher of Moor Allerton Hall Primary School in Leeds, shares how her school have developed a climate curriculum- and...2021-06-0938 minPlanet PossibleA few of the best bitsWe've reached the end of Season 1 of Let's talk WEM! Hear a few of our highlights from the compelling, authentic stories that our guests have shared with us and if you missed any episodes then grab a cuppa/ take the dog for a walk/ find your podcast listening spot and dive back into Season 1, before Season 2 gets started!Thanks to our Season 1 sponsor Yorkshire Water for enabling us to bring Let's talk WEM to life.If you'd like to get in touch to be involved with Let's talk WEM or to sponsor an episode you c...2021-05-2104 minPlanet PossibleDemandJoin Niki Roach as she speaks with key opinion formers and decision-makers from the UK on the topic of reducing our demand for water. This extended final episode of Season 1 tackles the tricky topics of compulsory metering and explores what our other options are to reduce demand for water. We hear what approaches are being taken globally and share what the current situation is like in the UK.As part of CIWEM's ongoing advocacy work, Niki spoke with Rebecca Pow MP, Parliamentary Under-Secretary of State at the Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs and we hear th...2021-05-0550 minPlanet PossibleWASH (WAter, Sanitation & Hygiene)Celebrating World Water Day and it's theme of Valuing Water, join CIWEM President Niki Roach as she interviews WaterAid's Country Director, Tripti Rai to explore the water, sanitation and hygiene situation in Nepal. Tripti expains how an innovative partnership with Anglian Water in the UK has led to more than just skills sharing on the ground.Niki's co-host for this episode is Neil Dewis, Chair of WaterAid in Yorkshire and Director of Water Service Delivery for Yorkshire Water. Neil offers his reflections on the conversation and the comparison with the 20 towns initiative that Yorkshire Water and WaterAid Et...2021-03-2235 minPlanet PossibleResilienceJoin CIWEM President Niki Roach and her guest Co-Host Liam Foster from WSP New Zealand as they hear from Catherine Wright and Oliver Harmar of the Environment Agency in England to explore the topic of resilience. Our guests share their experience of major flooding incidents in England in 2019 and how they applied lessons learned to managing Storm Christoph in early 2021. Liam and Niki explore how the approach compares to water management in New Zealand - Aotearoa and what we can learn from each other's challenges.
Credits Presented & Produced by Niki RoachE...2021-03-0233 minPlanet PossiblePrideJoin CIWEM President Niki Roach and her guest Co-Host & CEO of British Water, Lila Thompson as they hear from the founders of Pride in Water, Jacquie Moon and Brendan Moore. Our guests share their stories of being part of the LGBTQ+ community and their experiences within the Australian water sector. We explore why they set up Pride in Water at Yarra Valley Water in Melbourne and how this initiative is now expanding Australia-wide.
Credits Presented & Produced by Niki RoachExecutive Producer Andy Taylor - Bwlb LimitedWi...2021-02-0934 minPlanet PossibleFloodingJoin Niki for a virtual tour of Hull in East Yorkshire with her tour guide and Living with Water’s General Manager, Lee Pitcher. They’ll be joined by Ben Wallis, Kate MacDonald and Martin Budd to explore how the city has recovered after the devastating 2007 floods and how the special Living with Water partnership is helping people move from fearing to thriving around water.
Credits Presented & Produced by Niki RoachExecutive Producer Andy Taylor - Bwlb LimitedWith thanks to Alastair ChisholmHonorary Executive Producer Jane Bo...2021-01-2524 minPlanet PossibleAdvocacyThe science and art of influence.
Niki's special guest co-host is Barbara, Baroness Young Of Old Scone, plus her big interview is with Jake Rigg of Affinity Water and Alastair Chisholm from CIWEM.
Join them to hear why advocacy is even necessary in the water and environment sector, hear first hand examples of advocacy in action and listen to their top tips for getting advocacy right.Credits
Presented & Produced by Niki Roach
Executive Producer Andy Taylor - Bwlb Limited
With thanks to Alastair Chisholm
Honorary Executive Producer Jane Boland2020-12-1634 minPlanet PossibleSeries TrailerPresident of CIWEM Niki Roach introduces a brand new podcast series - 'Let's Talk WEM', supported by Yorkshire Water. Listen to this trailer to find out more.Credits
Presented & Produced by Niki Roach
Executive Producer Andy Taylor - Bwlb Limited
With thanks to Alastair Chisholm
Honorary Executive Producer Jane Boland2020-12-0802 min