Conservation and Science

If not for the drastically shorter days, the temperatures wouldn't make me feel like it's the second half of October. I guess the unusually warm weather is something we'd better get used to, and the same goes for the unusually wet weather, at least in my part of the world. So, let's talk about climate. I'm fully aware that you might be sick and tired of a constant barrage of depressing climate news. That might be a problem in itself, as people want to isolate themselves from the doom and gloom of climate peril. Let's say it out loud: climate anxiety. I appreciate that pushing away the negative news, hiding one's head in the sand, or straight-up denial are effective techniques for dealing with it. Is there a better way, though? I believe that there has to be, and in this week's podcast episode, we present one of the possible alternatives. An alternative that is very much focused on action instead of sedation! And to stay with the topic of changing climate but tackle it from a slightly different angle, we examine the current status and prognosis for the future of polar bears. Don't worry, it's not all doom and gloom.

Climate Anxiety and Presence Activism

Do you feel climate anxiety? Is it overwhelming you? How do we find peace while being bombarded with dire environmental predictions? In an attempt to answer these questions, I talk with Lynne Sedgmore, a well-known educator, leadership coach, activist and the author of the book "Presence Activism: A Profound Antidote to Climate Anxiety".

189: Climate Anxiety and Presence Activism with Lynne Sedgmore

Presence Activism: A Profound Antidote to Climate Anxiety

To set the scene, we start with a discussion about peaceful but disruptive climate protests. We discuss their effectiveness, the reception by the wider public, and the recent governmental clampdown resulting in excessively long prison sentences for protesters. I also asked Lynne about ways to communicate with older generations about environmental issues. From my observations, it's usually more difficult than with younger people.

During our discussion, Lynne talks about the challenges of immersing herself in climate change literature and the importance of finding a balanced perspective. As in the book, in the podcast we explore the concept of "presence" as a tool for managing anxiety, and how practices like meditation have a calming effect on our nervous systems. Lynne emphasises the need for empathy in climate discussions, even with those holding opposing views.

We finish with a reminder about the value of staying present, rather than getting lost and upset by predictions for the future. This episode offers a unique mix of practical advice and philosophical wisdom for anyone grappling with climate concerns. And if all this sounds interesting to you, buy Lynne's book using the link below. That way, you will also support my work on the podcast.

In The Last Week’s Replay: Polar Bears in a Warming World with Andrew Derocher

This episode will answer all your questions about polar bears — including those you didn’t know you had. Our guest is Professor Andrew Derocher from the Department of Biological Sciences at the University of Alberta who specialises in ecology, conservation, and management of large Arctic mammals with a particular focus on polar bears. The subjects discussed include the limiting and regulating factors of polar bear populations, habitat use, predator-prey relationships, the effects of climate change as well as the accumulation of toxic chemicals in bears' bodies. We also explore the issue of polar bear hybridisation with brown bears and how this might impact their population. We ended our conversation with an attempt to predict the future of polar bears in the rapidly warming world.

Polar Bears in a Warming World with Andrew Derocher

I strive to deliver the most interesting and educational conversations with the most engaging guests about the natural environment. It is my goal to continue to deliver this content at no cost to you. However, the production of the podcast requires a significant investment of time and money. So I would appreciate any help you can give me.

Support My Work! Join the wonderful group of people who have already donated. Simply buy me a coffee!

113 Cherry St #92768, Seattle, WA 98104-2205
​Unsubscribe · Preferences​