Living Planet

Economies driven by growth, at cost to nature — surely there is some other way. In an interview, green economist Pavan Sukhdev says it's time for humanity to go through its next evolution. In part 2 of this special with On the Green Fence, hosts discuss: Does change need to happen first in our heads, and how about a hard look at what we really value?

To save the Earth, people like radical environmentalist Derrick Jensen advocate ending civilization and sending humans back to the Stone Age. In this special, Living Planet producers talk to On the Green Fence podcasters about the end of civilization: Should it and could it be done? What sustainable alternatives are there? Featuring an interview with Jensen.

Today on the show, we’re exploring ideas of wilderness, what rights nature has and how difficult it is to separate people from our concept of the natural world, and why doing so can be harmful. We also hear about some hungry wild animals who are missing humans during the coronavirus pandemic.

This week, we find out how coronavirus restrictions are driving change in cities — from the way urban dwellers get around, to how they think about food. We'll go foraging for edible plants in London, join a bike-riding lesson in Paris, and visit a backyard vegetable plot in Los Angeles.

Although oceans cover more than two-thirds of the Earth, we don't often hear what goes on beneath the surface. This week: How playing sound underwater could be used to help revive coral reefs — and the ways human noise pollution is muddying the marine soundscape. Also, South Africa’s humpback whales make a stunning comeback.

Today on the show we examine personal choice in relation to CO2 emissions and other environmental issues. What changes have we made in our homes and lives to reduce our impacts on the Earth? And how much do these decisions actually matter amidst the global realities of climate change?

We take a closer look at our relationship with animals. How are wild and domesticated animals managing in Madrid during lockdown? Why are India's holy cows suffering? What alternatives are there to eating meat? And, should we be cloning our pets?

The tiny nation of Guyana is pinning development hopes on oil despite the price crash, Germany's renewables hit a new record, and projects to boost biogas and solar in Africa.

Villagers in the Kendeng mountains of Java are fighting for their livelihoods as a growing number of cement factories threaten their water supply. Resistance against those in power has a long tradition in the region, which is home to the country's oldest social movement. Thomas Kruchem met up with some of the modern leaders of this movement for this in-depth documentary.

As parts of the world begin to carefully navigate their way out of the crisis, a few surprising consequences of the COVID-19 shutdown are coming to light. From a clear reduction in air pollution levels to reigniting important discussions about the future of renewable energy amid the oil price crash, the environmental effects of the pandemic will be felt for years to come.