Science Friday A Look Back At 2025 In Science, From Federal Cuts To Space Junk
Dec 31, 2025
Sophie Bushwick, a freelance science journalist, and Maggie Koerth, CNN's climate and weather editor, dive into a whirlwind of pressing science topics. They discuss the chaotic impact of CDC turmoil on public health and the upswing in renewable energy overtaking coal. AI's insatiable energy demands and the potential of GLP-1 drugs beyond weight loss are also covered. The duo explores the dangers of space junk and the intriguing claim of dire wolf de-extinction, weaving in scientific nuance with a touch of skepticism.
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CDC Communication Failures Hurt Outbreak Response
- The CDC experienced staffing turmoil and communication freezes that hampered outbreak response.
- Maggie Koerth described this dysfunction as politically driven and linked it to thousands of measles cases and 16 deaths.
Renewables Surpass Coal Amid Worsening Climate Signs
- For the first time, global renewables supplied more energy than coal, driven largely by China's build-out.
- Sophie Bushwick warned this progress coexisted with record heat and breached planetary boundaries, showing mixed climate signals.
AI Growth Is Driving Big New Energy Demand
- Rapid growth in data centers for AI is driving electricity demand and raising regional power costs.
- Maggie Koerth highlighted Virginia as a U.S. hub where future demand pressures are already inflating bills across state lines.