Short Wave

Scott Detrow, co-host of the NPR Politics Podcast, dives into the critical climate change positions of 2020 Democratic candidates. With the Iowa caucuses looming, he discusses the candidates' commitment to net-zero emissions and their plans to rejoin the Paris Agreement. Detrow highlights contrasting strategies, including carbon taxes and nuclear energy, as well as the candidates’ unified stance on supporting marginalized communities affected by pollution. His insights provide a clear picture of the evolving political climate and the urgency of environmental action.

Explore the harsh winter crisis known as dzud in Mongolia, where thousands of livestock perish, devastating herding communities. Hear a heart-wrenching account of a herder who lost nearly his entire cattle. Discover how environmental changes like drought and shrinking grasslands intensify these challenges. Yet, amid adversity, Mongolian herders display remarkable resilience through sustainable practices and community solidarity. Their connection to the land and each other shines through inspiring stories of perseverance.

Geoff Brumfiel, an NPR correspondent specialized in nuclear weapons, dives into the intricate history of Iran's nuclear program. He discusses how U.S. support in the 1950s set the stage for Iran’s ambitions and how the 2015 nuclear deal aimed to contain them. The conversation reveals the diplomatic challenges faced after the U.S. withdrawal from the agreement and explores the implications of Iran's uranium enrichment. Tensions between peaceful intentions and national security concerns are examined, providing a fascinating glimpse into an ongoing geopolitical drama.

Sarah Parcak, an expert in space archaeology and author of 'Archaeology From Space', discusses how satellite imagery transforms the field of archaeology. She reveals innovative techniques that help locate hidden sites, including medieval churches and Iron Age forts, using variations in plant growth. Parcak emphasizes the importance of preserving cultural heritage and the necessity of engaging local communities in archaeological practice. She also shares exciting findings from daily life in ancient Egypt, offering a glimpse into the past.

Join Jason Beaubien, NPR's global health correspondent, as he delves into the alarming outbreak of a new coronavirus believed to have originated in China. He discusses the frantic measures taken during the Lunar New Year travel period and parallels it with past outbreaks like SARS. Jason highlights how coronaviruses can transfer from animals to humans, stressing the challenges in tracing their origins. He also addresses concerns about transmission and the adequacy of screening measures at airports to prevent the virus from spreading further.

Discover the incredible comeback of the Guam Rail, or ko'ko', a bird once lost to extinction due to invasive species. With the help of dedicated conservationists and innovative breeding techniques, the ko'ko' has been successfully reintroduced into its natural habitat. Hear about the collaboration between conservationists and military personnel that made this possible. Despite ongoing challenges like predation and habitat loss, efforts continue to ensure this unique bird's survival and genetic diversity in the wild.

NPR science correspondent Joe Palca dives into the fascinating world of locusts and their devastating impact on agriculture. He shares insights on groundbreaking research in Arizona aimed at controlling these pests through their diets. Joe explains how environmental stress transforms grasshoppers into locusts and the historical significance of these swarming insects. He discusses innovative strategies farmers might use to manipulate locust behavior by changing soil health, all while highlighting the urgent need for sustainable pest control methods.

NPR science correspondent Jon Hamilton dives into the fascinating world of 'mighty mice'—genetically modified creatures with quadrupled muscle mass, recently returned from a month in zero gravity. He shares insights from researchers who hope these findings could lead to breakthroughs in treating muscle and bone diseases in humans, especially for astronauts. The discussion also touches on the personal connection between two biochemists whose love story intertwines with their scientific journey, adding a heartfelt touch to the groundbreaking research.

In this discussion, Jason Beaubien, an NPR reporter specializing in global health and development, explores the catastrophic natural disasters of 2020. He dives into the devastating wildfires in Australia, the destructive floods in Indonesia, and the recurring earthquakes in Puerto Rico. Together with fellow reporters, they dissect the science behind these phenomena and the devastating impacts on communities. Jason shares insights on wildfire dynamics and the challenges Puerto Ricans face with seismic activity, highlighting the pressing need for climate change awareness and adaptive strategies.

Steffanie Strathdee, an infectious disease epidemiologist, shares her harrowing story of her husband's near-fatal superbug infection, which sparked her journey into phage therapy. She discusses how this century-old treatment works and its promising role in combating antibiotic resistance. Strathdee explains the collaborative efforts involved in accessing experimental treatments and highlights the emotional complexities faced by caregivers. The conversation emphasizes the potential of bacteriophages as a revolutionary approach in the ongoing battle against superbugs.