The PGN Podcast

By Project Groundwater Northumbria

PGN stands for Project Groundwater Northumbria and in this podcast we're looking to normalise the conversation around flooding; what happens behind the scenes, lifting the curtains and the mystery tha... more

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FAQs about The PGN Podcast:

How many episodes does The PGN Podcast have?

The podcast currently has 25 episodes available.

The PGN Podcast episodes:

May 03, 2024Net Zero Together: Empowering Communities for Resilience
In the season one finale of The PGN Podcast, hosts Meshi Taka and Carl Hodgson are joined by Jess Cook, the Net Zero Programme Manager at North of Tyne Combined Authority (recorded before 2 May elections). In this episode, they explore how the Net Zero North East England partnership is catalysing the region's transition to net zero. Beyond merely mitigating climate impacts, they uncover how this partnership is fostering clean growth, prioritising environmental protection, and ensuring a smooth transition for all. The episode culminates in a discussion on the transformative potential of devolution, particularly in revolutionising transport infrastructure, and its pivotal role in steering communities towards a sustainable future.

Key Points Covered
Net Zero North East England: Jess discusses the goals and initiatives of the partnership in driving clean growth, environmental protection, and a just transition.

Collaboration: Emphasis is placed on the importance of collaboration, sharing best practices, and celebrating successes in achieving Net Zero.

Green Jobs and Education: The significance of embedding sustainability into all aspects of work and education, advocating for every job to be a green job.

Community Resilience: Meshi and Carl emphasise the need for community resilience to mitigate the impacts of climate change, particularly in vulnerable areas prone to flooding.

Youth Engagement: The importance of engaging youth in climate action and empowering them with the knowledge and tools to drive change is highlighted.

Devolution and Transport: The potential of devolution in improving transport and other sectors towards achieving Net Zero is discussed.
Guest Speakers:
Jess Cook, Net Zero Programme Manager at North of Tyne Combined Authority. (Details were correct at the time of recording)

Additional Notes:
This episode provides a comprehensive exploration of the multifaceted challenges and opportunities associated with transitioning to a net zero future and building climate resilience. Through engaging discussions and expert insights, the podcast advocates for collective action, innovation, and systemic change to address the urgent climate crisis and create a sustainable and equitable future for all.

Useful Information and Links:
About (netzeronortheastengland.co.uk)
Climate Action - United Nations Sustainable Development
Oxford researchers launch updated carbon offsetting principles | University of Oxford

If you enjoyed this podcast, please like, subscribe, and share with anyone who may find it useful.
To find out more about Project Groundwater Northumbria, please visit: www.pgn.org.uk
You can also find us on:
X (Formerly Twitter) - https://twitter.com/pgnorthumbria
Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/projectgroundwaternorthumbria/
...more
54min
April 19, 2024Sustainable Resilience: Harnessing Nature's Strengths
In this episode of The PGN Podcast, hosts Carl Hodgson and Meshi Taka, accompanied by guest speaker Alex Fraser, Natural Flood Management Specialist for Mott MacDonald, delve into the realm of nature-based solutions for flood management. Alex elaborates on the concept of nature-based solutions, advocating for a nature-positive and nature-first approach to address flooding issues. Emphasis is also placed on the necessity of systemic changes to prioritise long-term maintenance.

Key Points Covered:
Nature-Based Solutions: Exploring the potential of nature-based solutions in flood management, such as using hedges instead of fences, and the broader benefits they offer.

Long-Term Maintenance: Highlighting the importance of long-term maintenance and policy changes to support the sustainability of nature-based solutions.

Collaboration and Stakeholder Involvement: Emphasising the need for collaboration between different stakeholders to implement and sustain nature-based solutions effectively.

Rural and Urban Applications: The versatility of nature-based solutions in both rural and urban settings, and their role in addressing flooding issues.

Learning from Indigenous Practices: Advocating for learning from indigenous communities and other parts of the world in sustainable delivery of nature-based solutions.

Advocacy for System Change: Urging for bravery and system change to prioritise nature-based solutions and create a sustainable future.
Guest Speaker:Alex Fraser: Natural Flood Management Specialist at Mott MacDonald

Additional Notes:By learning from successful projects and indigenous practices, and by championing system-wide changes, communities can pave the way for a more sustainable and resilient future in flood management.

Useful Information and Links:
Grey to Green (welcometosheffield.co.uk)
Mansfield sustainable flood resilience | Green recovery | Wonderful on Tap | Severn Trent Water (stwater.co.uk)
Use nature-based solutions to reduce flooding in your area - GOV.UK (www.gov.uk)

If you enjoyed this podcast, please like, subscribe, and share with anyone who may find it useful.

To find out more about Project Groundwater Northumbria, please visit: www.pgn.org.uk

You can also find us on:
X (Formerly Twitter) - https://twitter.com/pgnorthumbria
Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/projectgroundwaternorthumbria/
...more
42min
April 12, 2024Eco-Resilience: Nature's Blueprint for Flood Preparedness
In this episode of The PGN Podcast, hosts Meshi Taka and Carl Hodgson explore the concept of nature-based solutions to leverage the natural environment and address environmental changes, particularly concerning climate change. Guest Hellen Hornby, Programme Development Manager for Groundworks North East and Cumbria shares her expertise in environmental conservation and the implementation of nature-based solutions in both urban and rural areas. The discussion also delves into the challenges of securing funding, legislation, and long-term maintenance for these solutions.

Key Points Covered:
Understanding Environmental Changes: Discussion on using the natural environment to understand and respond to environmental changes.

Multifaceted Benefits: How nature-based solutions offer ecological, social, and economic benefits, including flood prevention, water quality improvement, and climate change mitigation.

The Tyne Estuary Partnership: Highlighting the Tyne Estuary Partnership as an exemplary project employing nature-based solutions, such as creating salt marshes and intertidal habitats to improve ecosystems.

Funding and Maintenance Challenges: The ongoing challenges of securing funding and ensuring long-term maintenance for nature-based solutions, as well as opportunities to collaborate with businesses and integrate sustainability strategies.

Valuing the Natural Environment: Advocacy for valuing and protecting the natural environment for its wide range of benefits, including flood risk management, biodiversity conservation, and promoting health and well-being.
Guest Speakers:
Hellen Hornby: Programme Development Manager at Groundwork North East and Cumbria.

Additional Notes:
Nature-based solutions offer multifaceted benefits, addressing flood risks while enhancing ecological and social resilience. Collaboration and integration across sectors are crucial for the widespread adoption of nature-based solutions and their long-term effectiveness.

Useful Information and Links:
Tyne Estuary Partnership - Groundwork
Grey to Green (welcometosheffield.co.uk)
Mansfield sustainable flood resilience | Green recovery | Wonderful on Tap | Severn Trent Water (stwater.co.uk)
Use nature-based solutions to reduce flooding in your area - GOV.UK (www.gov.uk)

If you enjoyed this podcast, please like, subscribe, and share with anyone who may find it useful.

To find out more about Project Groundwater Northumbria, please visit: www.pgn.org.uk

You can also find us on:
X (Formerly Twitter) - https://twitter.com/pgnorthumbria
Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/projectgroundwaternorthumbria/
...more
40min
April 05, 2024Bold Actions to Foster Climate-Ready Communities
In this episode of The PGN Podcast, hosts Meshi Taka and Carl Hodgson delve into the need for accelerated action in flood management strategies amidst the growing frequency of intense rainfall due to climate change. Joined by guests Kate Lloyd, Regional Director of the Institution of Civil Engineers (North East and Yorkshire and Humber). Also Andy Mace, Director and Senior Sustainability Manager at ARUP. The conversation navigates the imperative of climate adaptation and the call for innovative approaches within the industry.

Key Points Covered:
Climate Change and Adaptation: The hosts and guests underscore the profound impacts of climate change on flooding patterns and the urgency for adaptive measures to mitigate risks effectively.

Collaborative Approach: Emphasising the need for collaboration across diverse sectors, the discussion underscores the necessity for holistic approaches in flood management strategies.

Innovation and Education: The importance of fostering innovation and promoting public awareness and education regarding climate change adaptation and sustainable practices is highlighted.

Role of Nature-Based Solutions: Recognizing the value of nature-based solutions, the conversation explores their significance in enhancing resilience against flooding and promoting environmental sustainability.

Creating Climate-Resilient Communities: The episode delves into the pivotal role of developers in constructing climate-resilient communities and integrating sustainable practices into new construction projects.

Sustainable Homes: Making sure that all those homes that are going to be built on are not five years down the line, not ten years down the line, but starting as soon as possible. Every home that is being done needs to be fit for the future.
Guest Speakers:
Kate Lloyd: Regional Director of the Institution of Civil Engineers (North East and Yorkshire and Humber)

Andy Mace: Director and Senior Sustainability Manager at ARUP

Additional Notes:
This episode encapsulates the imperative for accelerated action in flood management strategies amidst the challenges posed by climate change. Through insightful discussions and expert perspectives, the podcast advocates for collaborative, innovative, and holistic approaches to foster climate resilience and create sustainable communities.

Useful Information and Links:
Introduction | UNFCCC
The Institution Of Civil Engineers Homepage | Institution of Civil Engineers (ICE)
Time is running out | Institution of Civil Engineers (ICE)
Climate change: addressing the challenge - Arup
Mansfield sustainable flood resilience | Green recovery | Wonderful on Tap | Severn Trent Water (stwater.co.uk)

If you enjoyed this podcast, please like, subscribe, and share with anyone who may find it useful.

To find out more about Project Groundwater Northumbria, please visit: www.pgn.org.uk

You can also find us on:
X (Formerly Twitter) - https://twitter.com/pgnorthumbria
Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/projectgroundwaternorthumbria/
...more
49min
March 22, 2024Waves of Resilience: Supporting Mental Health in Crisis
In this episode of The PGN Podcast, hosts Carl Hodgson and Meshi Taka explore the often overlooked topic of the mental health impacts of flooding. Joined by Jed Ramsay, the Project Leader for Project Groundwater, Chiltern Hills and Berkshire Downs, the discussion sheds light on the unseen repercussions of flooding and the need for a more comprehensive approach to flood management.

Key Points Covered
Understanding the Mental Health Impacts: Delving into the unseen repercussions of flooding on mental well-being, the hosts and guests emphasise the need for increased awareness and support for affected individuals.

Training for Public Interaction: Highlighting the necessity for more training for officers handling public interactions during flooding incidents. The conversation also touches on the importance of empathy when dealing with these difficult situations.

Holistic Flood Management Approach: Advocating for a comprehensive approach to flood management that incorporates mental health considerations.

Exploring Different Types of Flooding: Examining the psychological effects of various types of flooding, including groundwater flooding, also shedding light on the diverse challenges faced by affected communities.
Guest Speaker:
Jed Ramsay MCIWEM C.WEM , Project Leader for Project Groundwater, Chiltern Hills and Berkshire Downs, shares firsthand experiences and insights into the mental health impacts of flooding in his area.

Additional Notes:
This episode of The PGN Podcast underscores the importance of recognising and addressing the psychological toll of flooding on affected communities. By normalising discussions around mental health and enhancing support systems for frontline responders, we can work towards more resilient and compassionate flood management strategies.

Useful Information and Links:
HECC report 2023. Chapter 3: Climate change, flooding, coastal change and public health (publishing.service.gov.uk)
Mental health costs of flooding and erosion - GOV.UK (www.gov.uk)
Flooding and health: an overview - GOV.UK (www.gov.uk)
Flood and Coastal Resilience Innovation Programme | Engage Environment Agency (engagementhq.com)
Project Groundwater

If you enjoyed this podcast, please like, subscribe, and share with anyone who may find it useful.

To find out more about Project Groundwater Northumbria, please visit: www.pgn.org.uk

You can also find us on:
X (Formerly Twitter) - https://twitter.com/pgnorthumbria
Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/projectgroundwaternorthumbria/
...more
30min
March 15, 2024The Foundation to 360 Resilience: Empowering Communities through Knowledge Sharing
In this episode of The PGN Podcast, hosts Meshi Taka and Carl Hodgson discuss the importance of normalising the conversation around flooding and increasing resilience to it. They are joined by guests Karen Daglish, Stronger Shores Delivery Manager at South Tyneside Council and Andrew Tweddle, Lead Principal Engineer at ESH Stantec.

Key Points Covered:
Understanding Flood Impacts: The hosts and guests delve into the impacts of flooding, including mental health and economic effects, highlighting the need for a holistic approach to flood management.

Role of Nature-Based Solutions: The discussion emphasises the use of nature-based solutions, such as coastal habitats, in enhancing resilience to flooding and erosion.

Community Engagement and Education: Meshi, Carl, Karen, and Andrew stress the importance of community engagement, particularly with children, in promoting awareness and action towards flood resilience.

Personal Experiences and Professional Insights: Karen Daglish and Andrew Tweddle share their personal experiences with flooding and provide valuable insights into their roles in flood management efforts.
Guest Speakers
Karen Daglish: Stronger Shores Delivery Manager at South Tyneside Council.

Andrew Tweddle MCIWEM C.WEM : Lead Principal Engineer at ESH Stantec.
Additional Notes:
This episode of The PGN Podcast provides a deep exploration of flood and coastal erosion risk management in England, and highlights the importance of collaboration, innovation, and community engagement in addressing these challenges.

Useful Information and Links:
Stronger Shores - Harnessing the power of nature
National Flood and Coastal Erosion Risk Management Strategy for England - GOV.UK (www.gov.uk)
The English National Study of Flooding and Health - Summary of the evidence generated to date (publishing.service.gov.uk)
The English National Cohort Study of Flooding & Health: psychological morbidity at three years of follow up | BMC Public Health | Full Text (biomedcentral.com)

If you enjoyed this podcast, please like, subscribe, and share with anyone who may find it useful.

To find out more about Project Groundwater Northumbria, please visit: www.pgn.org.uk

You can also find us on:
X (Formerly Twitter) - https://twitter.com/pgnorthumbria
Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/projectgroundwaternorthumbria/
...more
58min
March 08, 2024FCERM: Adaptation and Innovation Pathways
In this episode of The PGN Podcast, hosts Meshi Taka and Carl Hodgson are joined by a special guest, Andrew Eden ,Flood & Coastal Risk Manager: Adaptation & Resilience. The focus of the discussion revolves around the national strategy on flood and coastal erosion risk management in England.

Key Points Covered:
National Strategy Overview: Andrew provides some insights into the national strategy developed by the Environment Agency, outlining key objectives and priorities in managing flood and coastal erosion risks.

Collaboration and Partnership: Meshi and Carl emphasise the importance of collaborating with local authorities, councils, and other organisations in implementing flood management strategies.

Innovation and Resilience: The discussion dives into innovative approaches, including the Flood and Coastal Resilience Innovation Programme, which is aimed at exploring new solutions and technologies to enhance resilience against flood and coastal erosion.

Community Engagement: All parties stress the vital role of community engagement and social resilience in building effective flood management strategies.

Challenges and Solutions: Discussions surround how to build trust and overcome scepticism, as well as navigating through the various challenges faced in flood management efforts, offering insights into potential solutions and approaches.

Guest Speaker:
Andrew Eden: Flood & Coastal Risk Manager: Adaptation & Resilience for the Environment Agency, providing insights into the national strategy on flood and coastal erosion risk management in England.

Additional Notes:
This episode of The PGN Podcast provides a deep exploration of flood and coastal erosion risk management in England, and highlights the importance of collaboration, innovation, and community engagement in addressing these challenges.

Useful Information and Links:
National Flood and Coastal Erosion Risk Management Strategy for England - GOV.UK (www.gov.uk)
Flood and Coastal Resilience Innovation Programme | Engage Environment Agency (engagementhq.com)

If you enjoyed this podcast, please like, subscribe, and share with anyone who may find it useful.

To find out more about Project Groundwater Northumbria, please visit: www.pgn.org.uk

You can also find us on:
X (Formerly Twitter) - https://twitter.com/pgnorthumbria

Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/projectgroundwaternorthumbria/
...more
1h
March 01, 2024 Tides of Change: Shaping Inclusive Careers
In this bonus episode of The PGN Podcast, hosts Carl Hodgson and Meshi Taka explore the importance of diversifying the industry and attracting a broader spectrum of talent to careers in flood and water management.

Joined by Chartered Water and Environment Manager and host of Planet Possible podcast, Niki Roach, the discussion delves into the necessity for a diverse range of skills within the sector, extending beyond traditional STEM roles. Niki underscores the significance of visibility and representation within the industry in order to appeal to a wider audience, and also highlights the potential of apprenticeships as a medium to broaden the sector's demographic.

Key Points Covered:
Normalising Conversations: Destigmatizing the sector, the importance of representation and the need to further promote career opportunities in flood and water management, especially to young people.
Diversifying the Industry: Shedding light on the need for a broader skill set in the sector and challenging the perception that only STEM qualifications are relevant to pursue a career in the sector.
Apprenticeships and Inclusivity: An exploration of the potential for apprenticeships to attract diverse talent and the necessity of challenging the traditional norms to allow for a more inclusive workforce.
Work-Life Balance: The significance and benefits of flexible work arrangements and achieving work-life balance, especially in this post-COVID era.

Guest Speaker:
Niki Roach: A Chartered Water and Environment Manager, host of Planet Possible podcast, fellow of CIWEM and a Chartered Environmentalist. Niki uses her wealth of knowledge and personal experiences to provide insights into the diversity and inclusivity challenges within the water and environment sectors.

Additional Notes:
This episode underscores the crucial need for a more inclusive and diverse workforce in flood and water management. Through engaging conversations and insights from guest Niki Roach, the listener will gain valuable perspectives on reshaping industry norms and addressing contemporary challenges in environmental management and climate change.

Useful Information and Links:
Planet Possible

If you enjoyed this podcast, please like, subscribe, and share with anyone who may find it useful.
To find out more about Project Groundwater Northumbria, please visit: www.pgn.org.uk
You can also find us on:
X (Formerly Twitter) - https://twitter.com/pgnorthumbria
Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/projectgroundwaternorthumbria/
...more
29min
February 23, 2024Exploring Flood Management Rules and Procedures
In this episode of The PGN Podcast, hosts Meshi Taka and Carl Hodgson, accompanied again by Richard Woodhouse, the Sustainable Drainage Manager from Northumbrian Water, discuss the complexities of flood management in England. They delve into the complexities of flood management, discussing the intricate maze of rules and procedures involved, specifically the Flood and Water Management Act of 2010. Various challenges and considerations related to flood management are addressed, providing valuable insights into this multifaceted issue.

Their discussion underscores the importance of time, patience, and innovative thinking in crafting effective flood management solutions. They also discuss a radical proposal advocating for the wholesale transformation of non-porous areas into porous ones to help tackle and mitigate flood risks across the UK.

Key Points Covered:
Flood and Water Management Act of 2010: How it began, as well as the objectives, and impact on collaboration and risk management strategies post-2007 floods.

Funding and Planning Processes: Exploration of the intricate funding and planning procedures that are essential for implementing effective flood management initiatives.

Radical Solutions: Delving into transformative ideas such as converting impermeable surfaces into porous ones as an approach to reducing flood risks.

Collaboration and Responsibilities: Analysis of the roles and responsibilities of the different authorities, and an emphasis on the importance of collaboration between local councils, water companies, and regulatory agencies.

Long-Term Planning and Investment: Advocacy for continued and sustained investment and long-term planning in flood management, with an emphasis on bringing sustainable drainage systems into new developments.

Community Engagement and Preparedness: Highlighting the significance of public awareness, communication, and community engagement in maintaining flood resilience.
Guest Speaker:
Richard Woodhouse: Sustainable Drainage Manager at Northumbrian Water, providing insights into the challenges and strategies in flood management.

Additional Notes:
This episode of The PGN Podcast delves into the multifaceted landscape of flood management in England. The episode explore the current regulatory framework, funding dynamics, and the innovative solutions driving the discourse.
Through insightful discussions and expert analysis, the hosts advocate for a more holistic approach to flood management, and emphasise the importance of collaboration, long-term planning, and community engagement for invaluable resilience-building efforts.

Useful Information and Links:
Government response to the Pitt Review - GOV.UK (www.gov.uk)
Flood and Water Management Act 2010 (legislation.gov.uk)
Water Industry Act 1991 (legislation.gov.uk)
Planning practice guidance - GOV.UK (www.gov.uk)
Sustainable drainage (susdrain.org)
Save Water – Waterwise
Project Groundwater

If you enjoyed this podcast, please like, subscribe, and share with anyone who may find it useful.
To find out more about Project Groundwater Northumbria, please visit: www.pgn.org.uk

You can also find us on:
X (Formerly Twitter) - https://twitter.com/pgnorthumbria
Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/projectgroundwaternorthumbria/
LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/project-groundwater-northumbria-334a33274/
...more
50min
February 16, 2024Keeping the Spotlight on Groundwater: Innovation for Resilience
In this bonus episode of The PGN Podcast, hosts Carl Hodgson and Meshi Taka delve into the often-overlooked issue of groundwater flooding, shedding light on its complexities and discussing the urgent need for better understanding and management strategies. They are joined by Jed Ramsay, project lead for Project Groundwater Buckinghamshire, who shares insights into the challenges and objectives of the project, aiming to revolutionise groundwater flood risk management.

Key Points Covered:
Understanding Groundwater Flooding: The podcast explores the nuances of groundwater flooding, highlighting its status as the least understood and least invested type of flooding.

Project Groundwater Buckinghamshire: Jed Ramsay provides an overview of the project's goals and its local-to-national approach in addressing groundwater flood risk, funded by the Flood Coastal Resilience Innovation Programme.

Mental Health Impact: The discussion extends to the often-overlooked mental health impacts of flooding and the importance of addressing these concerns.

Upskilling and Better Data: The hosts and Ramsay emphasise the necessity of upskilling staff in local authorities and improving data collection and modelling for effective planning and policy implementation.

Collaboration and Legacy: The episode concludes with a call for collaboration among groundwater projects in the UK and the importance of establishing a legacy organisation to sustain efforts beyond project completion.
Guest Speaker:
Jed Ramsay: Project Lead for Project Groundwater Buckinghamshire, bringing expertise in addressing groundwater flood risk and promoting innovation in flood management.

Additional Notes:
This episode of The PGN Podcast dives into the crucial topic of groundwater flooding, featuring insights from Jed Ramsay and highlighting the importance of addressing this often-neglected aspect of flood management. The conversation underscores the necessity of normalising discussions around flooding and the urgency of improving understanding, data, and strategies for effective long-term management.

Useful Information and Links:
Flood and Coastal Resilience Innovation Programme | Engage Environment Agency (engagementhq.com)
Project Groundwater
If you enjoyed this podcast, please like, subscribe, and share with anyone who may find it useful.

To find out more about Project Groundwater Northumbria, please visit: www.pgn.org.uk

You can also find us on:
X (Formerly Twitter) - https://twitter.com/pgnorthumbria
Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/projectgroundwaternorthumbria/
LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/project-groundwater-northumbria-334a33274/
...more
23min

FAQs about The PGN Podcast:

How many episodes does The PGN Podcast have?

The podcast currently has 25 episodes available.