191: Rewilding Myths and Misconceptions with Ian Parsons

Book cover of 'Great Misconceptions: Rewilding Myths and Misunderstandings' edited by Ian Parsons. The cover features a nature photograph of golden grass or wheat stalks backlit by sunlight, creating a warm, ethereal atmosphere. The text is overlaid on a dark navy blue panel at the bottom of the image.

https://open.spotify.com/episode/3EJuOQQZYq7IDewk89lFrQ?si=2e974059d8234521 What exactly is rewilding? Does it simply mean bringing back wolves, lynx and bears, or is there more to it? Can we balance food production and rural community needs with land left to natural processes and wildlife conservation? To answer these questions, I talk with Ian Parsons, editor of "Great Misconceptions: Rewilding Myths and … Continue reading 191: Rewilding Myths and Misconceptions with Ian Parsons →

190: The Geopolitics of Whale Conservation with Peter Corkeron

Commercial whaling vessel docked at a harbor, showing large red circular harpoon reels and a yellow A-frame structure mounted on deck. The ship flies a Greenlandic flag and has industrial whaling equipment visible. The harbor scene includes a modern city skyline with a distinctive building visible in the background across calm waters on a partly cloudy day. Image by Bernd Hildebrandt from Pixabay.

https://open.spotify.com/episode/5i1mWPIBkTzOErZo25fszA Is the resumption of commercial whaling inevitable? What hidden geopolitical forces are shaping international whale conservation efforts? Let's dive (pun not intended) into the complex world of whale conservation with marine scientist Dr Peter Corkeron. In our conversation, Peter uncovers the surprising connections between military bases, national security, and the fate of the world's … Continue reading 190: The Geopolitics of Whale Conservation with Peter Corkeron →

Scottish Salmon Industry’s Environmental Nightmare Exposed

An aerial view of an industrial aquaculture operation showing two vessels working at a large circular fish farm pen. The main vessel is painted green and white and appears to be a well boat or service vessel, positioned alongside the fish farm cage. A smaller blue work boat is also visible. The circular fish farm pen is constructed with black floating pipes and netting, with visible water movement/aeration within the pen. The scene is captured from above, showing the vessels and infrastructure clearly against dark water. Photo supplied by and courtesy of Corin Smith. Copyright Corin Smith.

Scotland's salmon farming industry aims to double its production to 300,000-400,000 tonnes by 2030. This ambitious target comes despite a 2018 parliamentary inquiry concluding that expansion shouldn't proceed until environmental and welfare issues are addressed. As we examine the industry more closely, the problems become increasingly apparent, and they're far more serious than most consumers … Continue reading Scottish Salmon Industry’s Environmental Nightmare Exposed →