In Episode 14 Emmaline and Kincaid break down the science of microplastics.

1. What is the extent of the current plastic waste problem? 
2. Does plastic pollution increase your risk of cardio vascular disease or dementia? 
3. What technology is being developed to tackle plastic pollution? 

Find out the answers and more in this episode!

Summary:
In this episode of the Science Tapes, hosts Kincaid and Emmaline explore the dangers of plastic pollution. They dive into how plastic waste is one of the top threats to the planet, how plastic is potentially causing disease, and what technologies are being designed to clean up and prevent plastic waste. They interview Dr. Joseph Pennycook to explore how genetically modified organisms (GMOs) can be used to our benefit in the battle against plastic waste! They discuss the ecological considerations of introducing GMOs into the environment. The episode concludes with a reflection on the future of plastic and the importance of sustainability in addressing environmental challenges.

Takeaways:

Plastic waste pollution is a serious and concerning problem.

Innovative solutions are emerging to tackle plastic waste.

Microbes may offer a way to solve environmental problems.

Health impacts of microplastics are still being studied.

Technology is playing a crucial role in addressing plastic waste.

Ecological balance must be considered with GMOs.

The environment is constantly changing and evolving.

Public awareness and action are essential in combating plastic pollution.

Sustainability is key to future environmental health.

References:

1. Pletz, M. (2022). Ingested microplastics: Do humans eat one credit card per week?. Journal of Hazardous Materials Letters, 3, 100071. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.hazl.2022.1000713.

2. Marfella, R. et al (2024). Microplastics and Nanoplastics in Atheromas and Cardiovascular Events. New England Journal of Medicine, 390(10), 900-910. https://doi.org/10.1056/nejmoa23098224.

3. Nihart, A. J., et al (2025). Bioaccumulation of microplastics in decedent human brains. Nature Medicine. https://doi.org/10.1038/s41591-024-03453-1

Keywords:

plastic pollution, environmental science, microplastics, health impacts, technology solutions, microbial solutions, ecological balance, genetic modification, sustainability, climate change

In Episode 13, Emmaline and Kincaid are joined by PhD student Mia Arundel to explore the science and practice of rewilding.

1.    What exactly is rewilding?

2.    What are some of the most successful rewilding projects?

3.    Are childhood stories negatively affecting our opinions on rewilding?

4.    What can we all do to help with the rewilding efforts?

Find out the answers and more in this episode!

Summary:

In this episode, they discuss the concept of rewilding, its significance in restoring biodiversity and the challenges associated with reintroducing species in the UK. Mia shares the importance of creating ecosystems that can thrive with minimal human intervention and the complexities involvedin rewilding efforts. The discussion highlights the importance of predator-prey dynamics and the necessity of public acceptance for successful conservation efforts. They share successful rewilding stories and tips on how everyone cancontribute to rewilding in their everyday lives.

Takeaways:

1.    Rewilding aims to restore natural ecosystems and biodiversity.

2.    The UK is one of the most nature-depleted countries in the world.

3.    The reintroduction of apex predators can reshape ecosystems

4.    Successful rewilding requires social acceptance and ecological feasibility

5.    Planting native wildflowers can enhance local biodiversity.

Want to learn more? Tune in to THIS MONTH’S EPISODE!

Got any feedback? Please get in touch with out social media channels @thesciencetapes

In Episode 12, Emmaline and Kincaid break down the science of the night sky. 

1. What’s behind nature’s most stunning light show: the Northern Lights?

2. Why have we seen such strong Auroras in the last year?

3. How do you take images of the night sky from light polluted cities?

Find out the answers and more in this episode!

Summary:

In this episode we explore the mysteries of the night sky. We discuss the science behind the aurora borealis, how light pollution is on the rise, and how to image the night sky from light polluted cities. We are joined by expert deep sky astrophotographer Lee Pullen, who captures images of the cosmos from his back garden in Bristol.

Check out Lee's incredible images here: https://urbanastrophotography.com/

Takeaways:

1. Auroras are formed as charged particles from the Sun collide with our atmosphere.

2. Auroras form on other planets, not just Earth.

3. The Northern Lights are best seen through photos due to the increased exposure time.

4. Light pollution is getting worse each year.

5. Capturing the night sky from light polluted cities is possible.

6. Astronomical darkness cannot be achieved in the summer, making imaging a little more challenging. 

Want to learn more? Tune into THIS MONTH'S EPISODE!

Got any feedback? Please get in touch with our social media channels @thesciencetapes

In Episode 11, Emmaline and Kincaid break down the science of love.

1. How do your HORMONES change as you FALL IN LOVE?

2. How does SMELL affect your ability to find a PARTNER?

3. Are dating apps DETRIMENTAL to finding LOVE?

Find out the answers and more in this episode!

Summary:

In this episode they explore the multifaceted nature of love, from its biological underpinnings to the impact of dating apps on modern relationships. They discuss the three stages of love, delve into the concept of soulmates, and examine how technology is reshaping our approach to finding love. Featuring insights from psychologist Dr. Martin Graff, the conversation highlights the complexities of attraction, the role of hormones, and the evolving landscape of dating in the digital age.

Takeaways:

1. Love is a biological process with distinct stages.

2. Dating apps have changed the way we find love.

3. Oxytocin plays a crucial role in bonding and attachment.

4. Many people use dating apps for validation rather than genuine connection.

5. The concept of soulmates is still prevalent in modern society.

6. Men and women approach dating and attraction differently.

7. Ghosting has become a common behavior in online dating.

8. The probability of finding true love is statistically low.

9. MHC molecules influence attraction and mate selection.

10. The rise of dating apps has increased the number of long-term relationships.

Want to learn more? Tune into THIS MONTH'S EPISODE!

Got any feedback? Please get in touch with our social media channels @thesciencetapes

We are back for 2025! In episode 10 Emmaline and Kincaid break down the science of breastfeeding.

1. How does breast milk PROTECT your baby FROM INFECTIONS?

2. How can breast milk BUILD your baby’s GUT MICROBIOME?

3. What is the relationship between breastfeeding and RISK of breast cancer?

In this episode they discuss the incredible immune boosting benefits of breast milk for your baby. They introduce the biotechnology company: BoobyBiome. BoobyBiome aim to ensure every baby benefits from the health-boosting bacteria found in breast milk. 

In the second half, they are joined by Dr Bethan Lloyd-Lewis, an EXPERT in BREAST BIOLOGY. She explains the relationship between breast feeding and cancer, something her lab is interested in studying.

Want to learn more? Tune into THIS MONTH’S EPISODE!

Got any feedback? Please get in touch on our social media channels @thesciencetapes

*Please be advised that The Science Tapes content may contain strong language and imagery related to animal research, which may be distressing to some listeners. Please also note that this podcast is not intended to serve as medical advice.

Dr Laszlo Talas introduces us to the world of camouflage and vision. He shares his career path, where he has studied vision and camouflage in all different contexts: both natural and manmade.

Why are zebras striped? Why are tigers not green? Why should you get your dog a blue ball? Find out the answers and more in this episode of The Science Tapes!

Please be advised that The Science Tapes content may contain strong language and imagery related to animal research, which may be distressing to some listeners.

Professor Ross Anderson introduces us to the world of protein design. His work aims to beat biology by building more efficient proteins to solve some of the world's biggest challenges!

How do you design a protein? What is an electron and how can it jump from place to place? How can you use proteins to harness energy from the sun? Find out the answers and more in this episode of The Science Tapes!

Professor Ash Toye is back for another episode! Ash introduces us to the world of SPINOUTS, where scientists aim to put their ideas into the world. We talk about his journey setting up Scarlet Therapeutics Ltd, a biotechnology company based in Science Creates (Bristol). They aim to use red blood cells as MINIATURE VEHICLES to deliver DRUGS to people with certain diseases.

Can you make red blood cells better at their job? How did Ash come up with the company name? Can you generate rainbow coloured blood?

P.S. Want to learn more about blood? Catch up with our first chat with Ash in Episode 2: Life in the Bloodstream!

Please note that this podcast is not intended to serve as medical advice

Professor Michael Danson introduces us to the world of extremophiles. He shares stories from his career, including expeditions to Antarctica and what is being done to maintain Scott and Shackleton's huts.

Why are flamingos pink? How do frogs freeze solid to survive the winter? How to survive a fire drill in Antarctica?

Please also note that this podcast is not intended to serve as medical advice.

Professor Nigel Savery introduces us to the blueprint of all life: DNA. He breaks down the code and guides us through the journey of DNA repair.

Why do chickens have so many chromosomes? How is DNA like a recipe book? Do microwaves cause cancer? Find out the answers and more in this episode of The Science Tapes!

Please be advised that The Science Tapes content may contain strong language and imagery related to animal research, which may be distressing to some listeners. Please also note that this podcast is not intended to serve as medical advice